Statistics Canada released retail sales data today. Retail sales declined 0.1% in July, missing expectations for a 0.4% rise, after a 1.2% increase in June. June's figure was revised up from a 1.1% gain.

Sales at general merchandise stores fell 2.7%, while sales at supermarkets and grocery stores decreased 1.1%.

Motor vehicle and parts sales jumped 1.6%.

Retail sales excluding auto sales dropped 0.6% in July, missing expectations for a 0.1% fall, after a 1.5% increase.