U.S. Retail Sales Rose in February

Retail sales increased 0.3% in the month of February, in contrast to the negative 0.2% which was predicted. Excluding gas and car sales, the increase was 0.9%. Consumers are getting more confident as employment declines slower, wages are more steady and hours worked are more constant. Electronics increased by 3.7%, clothing increased by 0.6%,building materials grew by 0.5%, and bars and restaurants increased sales by 0.9%. Car sales fell by 2% and Toyota sales fell by 9%. However it is expected that economic growth will slow in the coming months.