Economic Indicators Review

Canada – In June, Canadian retail sales rose 1.0%, outdoing expectations of a 0.2% increase and constituting a fifth advance in six months. The automotive sector recorded the strongest progression (+2.1%), propelled by gasoline station sales (+4.75). General merchandise stores turned in the weakest showing, sagging 0.6%. Retail sales excluding motor vehicles and parts were up 1.0% after rising 0.6% the month before. Gains were broadly based in 6 of 8 sectors. In constant dollars, retail sales