Retail trade numbers for September and the consumer price index for October are the two key economic reports for the coming week.

Statistics Canada reports on retail sales on Monday. Economists expect month-over-month retail trade to have grown 0.1% over all, and 1% excluding automobile sales.

On Tuesday, StatsCan releases the consumer price index for October. Analysts forecast a 0.2% drop from September. On an annual basis, inflation is expected to be running at 2.9% year-over-year and 1.8% excluding eight volatile items.

On Wednesday, the statistical agency reports on the leading indicator in October. Economists expect a rise of 0.3% from the previous month.

The Conference Board of Canada releases Canadian Industrial Outlook: Canada’s Auto and Auto Parts Industry—Autumn 2005.

On Thursday, Statistics Canada reports on quarterly financial statistics for enterprises in the third quarter.

Bank of Canada deputy governor Pierre Duguay speaks in Halifax.

On Friday, StatsCan issues its revised report on net farm income in 2004.

Separately, the government agency reports on farm cash receipts in the third quarter.

South of the border, U.S. financial markets will be closed for Thursday for Thanksgiving Day.

On Monday, the U.S. Conference Board reports on the leading indicator in October. Economists expect a rise of 0.8%.

On Wednesday, the University of Michigan issues its revised indicator on consumer sentiment in November. Economists expect a reading of 81.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Labor Department reports on initial jobless claims in the week ending Nov. 19. Economists expect 312,000 new claims.

Bank earnings season kicks off Wednesday when Toronto-Dominion Bank releases its year-end results.

Analysts expect another strong performance by its retail banking network.

Other companies reporting this week include: George Weston Ltd.; Mosaid Technologies Inc.