Australian retail sales had the biggest increase in 10 months in November as Black Friday discounting drew cost-conscious shoppers, but even so they missed forecasts suggesting consumer demand remains subdued.

“Black Friday sales events proved once again to be a big hit, with widespread discounting and higher spending across all retail industries,” ABS head of business statistics Robert Ewing said.

Australia retail activity jumped in November, supported by Black Friday sales and widespread discounting ahead of Christmas.

The U.S. dollar drew strength from rising Treasury yields on Thursday, adding pressure to the pound and euro, while the yen edged up from recent lows, and the market waited for clarity on possible Trump tariffs.

Australian Retailers Association's Chief Industry Officer Fleur Brown says Black Friday sales were a “big winner” for retail sales last year.