Retail stocks like TJX and Dollar General fall despite typical strength in weak consumer periods

Retail stocks that usually perform well during economic slowdowns, such as TJX, Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Ross Stores, and Five Below, are instead declining amid fears related to the Iran war and rising oil prices. CNBC's Jim Cramer noted that these stocks are being sold off emotionally due to concerns over prolonged conflict and its impact on consumer spending, despite some companies posting strong results. This unusual market behavior suggests investors may need to reconsider their strategies around consumer-facing stocks in the current environment. Cramer advises caution against trading solely on headline fears and highlights that buying retail stocks just because they have become cheaper has not been effective recently.