Explore the consumer discretionary sector, its impact on economic growth indicators, and why spending varies with income levels. Learn what influences this pivotal market.

U.S. consumers last year shelled out their extra spending money on smaller items — including used goods, apparel and dining out — rather than big purchases like electronics, furniture, hotels and air ...

Discretionary expenses refer to non-essential spending on goods and services that are not required to maintain basic living standards. These expenses are often associated with leisure, entertainment, ...

Consumer discretionary stocks have had a nice run. Selling is a sound idea now. The stocks have taken off because sellers of nonessential goods and services do well when consumers have more money to ...

Pam Childers says commissioners' discretionary spending can give the appearance of "currying votes." Some commissioners say ...