U.S. retail sales unexpectedly rose in August as a decline in receipts at auto dealerships was more than offset by strength in online purchases, suggesting that the economy remained on solid footing through much of the third quarter.

Sales at retailers rose slightly in August in a sign of resilience among U.S. households, suggesting the U.S. economy is still on solid footing as the Federal Reserve plots to cut interest rates.

A strong report could pave the way for a more modest rate cut, while a softer reading may spur the central bank into taking more drastic action.