1.   Also, slowing consumer spending hurts small businesses, which tend to be financed primarily by domestic bank loans.

2.   And not everyone is as bullish about the prospects of Windows XP, given slowing consumer PC demand and the relatively lackluster performance of other Windows software upgrades.

3.   A rise in rates could sink stocks by slowing consumer spending and investment.

4.   By slowing consumer spending, or even making it downright painful, the central bank intends to drive a stake through the heart of inflation.

5.   Declining wholesale prices reflect slowing consumer demand for pork products.

6.   Disappointing earnings from the Limited Inc. and other retailers raised concern about slowing consumer spending.

7.   Even if a devaluation is avoided, slowing consumer spending could dash the hopes of companies that had looked to Brazil as one of their fastest-growing markets.

8.   Falling wholesale price reflect slowing consumer demand.

9.   Great Universal Stores was among the hardest hit after an earnings report from Sears Plc pointed to slowing consumer and home-shopping sales in the U.K.

10.   LIMITED AND GAP POST WEAK SALES Two giants of specialty retailing reported disappointing November sales, playing to investor fears of a slowing consumer market.