U.S. shoppers spent more at retailers last month in latest sign consumers are driving growth 

WASHINGTON (AP) – Americans stepped up their purchases at retailers last month as low unemployment, steady pay gains and rising stock and home values helped sustain their willingness to spend despite higher prices.  Retail sales rose 0.4% from August to September, the Commerce Department said Thursday, up from 0.1% the previous month and the third…

U.S. shoppers spent more at retailers last month in latest sign consumers are driving growth