In this Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012, photo, shoppers wait on line at the checkout counter to purchase goods at an H&M store, in Atlanta. U. S. consumers increased their spending in

... more 

In this Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012, photo, shoppers wait on line at the checkout counter to purchase goods at an H&M store, in Atlanta. U. S. consumers increased their spending in December at a slower pace, while their income grew by the largest amount in eight years. Income surged because companies rushed to pay dividends before income taxes increased on high-earners. (AP Photo/David Goldman) less