Canadian markets are closed Monday for the Victoria Day holiday.

John Murray, deputy governor of the Bank of Canada, addresses the Global Interdependence Centre, in Philadelphia, on “When the unconventional becomes conventional.”

On Wednesday, Statistics Canada reports on the consumer price index for April. Economists forecast a 0.6% rise over the same month last year.

Separately, Statistics Canada reports on leading indicators for April. A drop of 1% from the previous month is forecast.

On Thursday, Statistics Canada reports in wholesale trade for March. Economists expect a drop of 0.8%.

Separately, StatsCan reports on international securities transactions for March. A net inflow of $5-billion is forecast.

On Friday, Statistics Canada reports on retail sales for March. Economists forecast a rise of 0.5% over previous month.

South of the border

On Tuesday, the U.S. Department of Commerce reports on building permits and housing starts for April. Economists forecast 530,000 permits issued and 520,000 starts, both annualized.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Federal Reserve issues minutes from its meeting of April 28-29, Washington.

On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Labour reports on jobless claims for the week ended May 16. Economists forecast 625,000 claims, down from 637,000 the previous week.

Corporate earnings

On Monday, Lowe’s Cos. Inc. reports its first-quarter results.

On Tuesday, Hewlett-Packard Co. reports its second-quarter results. Home Depot Inc. reports its first-quarter results.

On Wednesday, Canaccord Capital Inc. reports its fourth-quarter results.

London Stock Exchange PLC reports preliminary 2008 results.

U.S. retailer Target Corp. reports first-quarter results.

On Thursday, Barnes & Noble Inc. reports its first-quarter results as does Gap Inc.

On Friday, Indigo Books & Music Inc. reports its fourth-quarter results.

IE