Retail stocks on the rise

NEW YORK Despite low expectations for June sales, retail stocks were on the rise Monday. The S&P Retail Index rose 0.7% to 311.62.

Department stores, which on a whole have been struggling, were among the top gainers. Nordstrom's stock was up 2.4%, while Kohl's and TJX saw their stock rise 2.1% and 3.2%, respectively.

According to Market Watch, analysts are not expecting much improvement in retail sales for the month of June, though there is hope that Father's Day and July 4 sales will provide a boost.