Earnings reports sparked some of Friday’s new highs, including a few in the rising consumer sector. Ross Stores (ROST) gapped up after the discount apparel retailer beat expectations with its fourth-quarter results, reported late Thursday. Same-store sales jumped 6% for the quarter, topping the company’s forecast. Ross also cited improved operating margins. The stock jumped 6.76, or 7%, to 105.81 in more than triple its usual volume.