Wal-Mart Stores Inc. posted a 39% increase...

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. posted a 39% increase in income to $153.6 million for the first quarter. The rapidly expanding discount retailer said sales totaled $4.28 billion, up from $3.21 billion. In addition to increased sales, the Bentonville, Ark.-based company credited improved expense control and a reduction in its federal income tax rate.