There have been some positive signs this week that the global recession may be easing, but many U.S. consumers seem skeptical.
Retail sales for some large chains declined over the last quarter. Nordstrom, Macy's and J.C. Penney's all posted losses.
But TJX, which owns mega discount chains T.J. Maxx and Marshalls, bucked the trend and saw its profits rise 27 percent.