US DATA: Feb retail sales +1.0% overall, +0.7% ex….

US DATA: Feb retail sales +1.0% overall, +0.7% ex auto, and +0.6%
ex auto and gas, pretty much matching expectations, but Jan sales were
revised higher. Feb weakness was seen in furniture -0.8%, healthcare
-0.3%, and nonstore (mail & Internet) -0.3%. All other areas posted
gains, led by +1.4% gas (probably price related), +1.3% sporting goods
(after -1.0% in Jan), +2.3% autos (new unit sales jumped), +1.2% food,
+0.9% electronics, +0.8% clothing, and +0.6% bldg mats. Jan-Feb nonauto
sales are growing nearly +6% SAAR vs Q4, a very hefty rate that suggests
Q1 real GDP is advancing smartly.