New York

CORPORATE bond sales in the United States surged on Friday as blue-chip companies jumped at the opportunity to take advantage of data showing resilience in the job market.

About US$9 billion of securities were sold, up from US$3.5 billion on Thursday, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Kroger Co, the largest US supermarket chain, raised US$1.1 billion of debt in three parts. Simon Property Group Inc, the biggest US mall owner, issued US$1.35 billion.