Canada's composite leading indicator rose 0.8 percent in February, as expected, posting its ninth straight gain due to strong household demand and a recovery in manufacturing, Statistics Canada said on Tuesday. Nine of the 10 components of the index advanced compared to eight in January when the index climbed 0.7 percent, revised down from 0.9 percent previously.
Canadians bought furniture and household appliances at the fastest rate in three years, driving up sales by 1.2 percent. Purchases of other durable goods gained 0.7 percent.