Good News, March | featured news

The pace of growth in the manufacturing sector picked up a tad in March, while new orders dipped modestly, according to an industry report released on Mon day.

Consumers spent more in March on furniture, electronics and at restaurants, but also paid more for gas. Retail sales increased 0.4 percent last month, the Commerce Department said Wednesday. It was the ninth consecutive monthly gain.

Analysts project that sales will increase across the industry, despite worries about rising gasoline prices and production stoppages in Japan.

U.S. housing starts rose more than expected in March to their highest level since November 2008 and permits to build new homes scaled a 17- month high.

Retail sales soared in March, the government said Wednesday, in the latest sign of improving consumer confidence.