TSX Ends Flat Week On Sour Note -- Canadian Commentary

(RTTNews) - Canadian stocks struggled Friday, trimming gains from the previous two sessions amid renewed concerns about the economic outlook on both sides of the border.

Political uncertainty and the threat of higher interest rates has caused some anxiety this month, leaving stocks in limbo.

The S&P/TSX Composite Index was down 58.72 points, or 0.4 percent, to 14,584.99. The index was pretty much flat for the week.

Energy stocks were a bit lower, while significant weakness emerged in the gold sector.

In corporate news, Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc. (VRX) Friday announced increase in prices on its neurology, gastrointestinal disorder and urology portfolios by 2 to 9 percent.

The company said there will be no price increases on dermatology and eye health products this year. VRX shares fell 2.8 percent.

Bombardier (BBD.B.TO) says Philippine Airlines plans to buy up to a dozen Q400 aircraft. Shares were little changed.

Nautilus Minerals Inc. (NUS.TO) has appointed Stuart MacKenzie as Company Secretary and Legal Counsel, and Glenn Withers as Acting Chief Financial Officer. Shares jumped 9.7 percent.

In economic news, U.S. retail sales climbed by 0.6 percent in September after edging down by a revised 0.2 percent in August.

Meanwhile, U.S. producer prices increased by slightly more than expected in the month of September.

Also, consumer confidence unexpectedly fell to a one-year low in October amid axiety over the presidential election.