U.S. retail sales pop up 0.6% in March after three straight declines

Sales at U.S. retailers rose 0.6% in March to end a streak of three straight declines, the Commerce Department reported Monday, underscoring the improved financial picture of American households and the resiliency of an economic expansion that could turn out to be the longest ever.

Sales rose a smaller 0.3% last month if autos and gas are stripped out, the Commerce Department said Monday.. . . more