US DATA: ICSC says “U.S. chain-store sales rose by…

US DATA: ICSC says “U.S. chain-store sales rose by 4.6% (less drug
stores) for the month of July on a year-over-year basis according to the
International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC). The performance was
the strongest monthly gain since March, 2012 (+6.8%, less drug stores).
The pace of sales in July improved appreciably over last month. July is
typically dominated by summer clearance so this stronger than expected
performance is particularly encouraging, especially after the softer
three-month run we have just been through in the industry and the
overall economy.”