U.S. consumers keep spending despite high gas prices and inflation

Consumers continue spending despite high gas prices and inflation, powering U.S. economic growth even as their outlook remains gloomy, according to data released Thursday. Retail sales rose 0.8% in September, beating forecasts, though excluding gas they gained just 0.2%. Wholesale prices jumped 6.3% annually, the biggest increase in nearly four years, driven by a 20% monthly spike in gas costs. Diesel prices averaged $6.32 a gallon, up from $3.66 a year ago, raising shipping and food costs. Unemployment claims stayed below 200,000, but inflation-adjusted paychecks fell year-over-year, and the Federal Reserve may hike interest rates again this year.