US consumer spending grows in August on back of strong employment numbers

Despite global slowdown that has impacted manufacturers, spending rises 0.4% for second straight month as employment gains solidify upward trend

Consumer spending rose at a healthy rate in the US in August, while income growth slowed after a big jump in July.

Consumer spending advanced 0.4% compared to July, when spending also increased by 0.4%, the Commerce Department said Monday. In both months, the figures reflected strong gains in purchases of durable goods such as autos.