The spate of bankruptcies from brick-and-mortar retails stores could be spooking investors as companies like Sears Holdings filed for bankruptcy protection last month after 125 years in business. However, some data points could support an uptick in consumer spending. Additionally, the falling oil prices, which are expected to drag down gasoline prices, could also bolster sales as consumers are left with more discretionary money to spend.
“Gina Sanchez, CEO of Chantico Global, believes that ‘the consumer is healthy here,’ which is positive for retail. However, Sanchez also warns that there are a number of underlying factors that could still hit the group,” reports CNBC.
Investors pulled almost $19 million from XRT last year.
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