This week brings the latest announcement on interest rates from the Bank of Canada and the consumer price index for September.

On Monday, Statistics Canada reports on leading indicators for September. Economists expect a rise of 0.3%.

Separately, StatsCan reports on new motor vehicle sales for August. Sales are forecast to rise 3%.

On Tuesday, the Bank of Canada announces the target for its benchmark interest rate. Economists expect the rate to remain unchanged at 4.5%.

Meanwhile, StatsCan reports on manufacturing shipments for August. Economists expect a drop of 0.5%.

On Wednesday, Statistics Canada reports on wholesale trade in August. Economists expect an increase of 0.1%.


On Thursday, StatsCan reports on international securities transactions for August. A net inflow of $2.8-billion is forecast.

Also, the Bank of Canada releases its monetary policy report.

On Friday, Statistics Canada posts the consumer price index for September. Economists expect the inflation indicator to have risen by 2.5%.

South of the border

On Tuesday, the U.S. Federal Reserve Board reports on industrial production in September. A rise of 0.1% is expected.

The Fed also reports on capacity utilization in September. Economists expect a rate of 82.1%.

On Wednesday, The U.S. Department of Labor posts the consumer price index for September. Economists expect a rise of 0.2% from the previous month.

As well, the U.S. Department of Commerce releases data on housing starts and building permits for September. Economists expect 1.288 million starts and 1.290 million building permits.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Fed issues its Beige Book, a summary of economic conditions.

On Thursday, the U.S. Labor Department reports on initial jobless claims for the week ended Oct. 13. Economists forecast 312,000 claims.

As well, the U.S. Conference Board reports on leading indicators in September. An increase of 0.4% is forecast.

Corporate earnings

Third quarter earnings season is well underway this week.

On Monday, global banking giant Citigroup reports.

Tuesday’s earnings reports include such names as Intel, Jean Coutu Group, and Yahoo.

Wednesday brings reports from Abbott Laboratories, Altria Group, Coca-Cola, E*Trade Financial, and J.P. Morgan Chase.

On Thursday, Bank of America reports, as does Dow Jones, Eli Lilly, Google, and Pfizer Inc.

Friday’s earnings include Caterpillar, Honeywell International, and Xerox.