Just as perspective. The stock market is looking forward, 6 - 18 month. One invests thinking things are going to become less bad, down the road. Always has been, is today, and always will be in the future.
Sales is coincidental with the economy. It is, by definition, the GDP.
Improvements in unemployment is a lagging economic indicator. Always has been. Companies do not hire until they cannot handle the improvement by reducing inventory and working current employees with more overtime. They are hesitant making the commitment to hire and train new employees until they have confidence in sustained need.
Many think unemployment is a leading indicator and the stock market is either a lagging indicator or just fat cats out to screw the little guy. They are mistaken on both accounts. They need to learn economics.