The last economic data report that has the potential to change the tone of the upcoming FOMC meeting on April 30-May 1 is retail and food services sales at 8:30 ET on Monday. Sales were weaker in January and rose modestly in February. How the March number shapes consumer spending for the first quarter depends on a number of factors. Unit sales of motor vehicles were slightly softer in March, but the dollar value of sales may not be much changed. Gasoline prices rose in March, but some of this may be accounted for by seasonal adjustments since modest price rises are typical at this time of year. What may be more ... (full story)