Economic Indicators

Detentions raise fears, cast doubt on China's policies

By detaining two Canadians in an apparent act of retaliation, China is looking like the country its harshest critics say it is: one unbound by the laws, rules and procedures that govern other major industrial nations.

November retail sales rose moderately

The Commerce Department reports retail sales rose a seasonally adjusted 0.2 percent in November, matching expectations, as households bought furniture, electronics and a range of other goods.