U.S. retail sales rise strongly, boost economic outlook

U.S. retail sales in April recorded their biggest increase in a year as Americans stepped up purchases of automobiles and a range of other goods, suggesting the economy was regaining momentum after growth almost stalled in the first quarter. The jump in sales reported by the Commerce Department on Friday is a boost for the sector that has been hit by sluggish demand. "The retail sales report shows that recent claims of the demise of the U.S. consumer have been greatly exaggerated," said Steve Mu