Retail sales in the U.S. barely rise. Is the economy slowing? - MarketWatch
1. U.S. retail sales rose only 0.2% in February, below expectations. 2. Consumer confidence fell to a 2½-year low, signaling economic softness. 3. Online and pharmacy sales increased, while automobiles and restaurants struggled. 4. Retail sales impacts GDP growth; indicators suggest mild first-quarter growth. 5. DJIA and S&P 500 posted slight gains amidst cautious market sentiment.