U.S. retail sales post biggest drop in almost a year. Is it a sign of a weakening economy?

The numbers: Sales at U.S. retailers fell 0.6% in November to mark their biggest decline in almost a year, largely because of weak car sales. Higher interest rates and a slowing economy also appeared to play a role.

Retail sales were forecast to decline 0.3% last month, according to economists polled by The Wall Street Journal.

Receipts dropped…