Snowstorms to depress Q4 consumer sales

Snowstorms make commuting tough and increase the risk of power outages, as seen during Toronto’s ice storm over the holiday season.

Read: Much of Canada facing more bitter weather

They’re also bad news for the economy since consumers are less willing to take shopping trips, Citigroup analyst Oliver Chen recently told Market Watch. In fact, he says major clothing and specialty retailers he’s invested in are already suffering.

Read: Online shopping gains momentum

This is especially problematic since Q4 sales volumes were likely depressed due to a slow holiday season. Read more.

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