Last week, we saw that core inflation pressure remains muted for both consumers and producers, despite increasing gas prices. Retail sales rebounded in October, following a disappointing decline in September. This week, we’re focusing on important updates on the housing markets and consumer confidence, as well as the release of the FOMC minutes.

I appeared on CNBC's Nightly Business Report (my segment starts at 4:43) on Monday to discuss the industrial sector. Listen in to learn more.

Last week was relatively quiet for economic news—the few major reports released related to international trade and service sector and consumer confidence. The trade deficit narrowed as expected, while service sector and consumer confidence both increased by more than anticipated. This week, a little more action is forthcoming, as we’re expecting updates on consumer and producer inflation, retail sales, and industrial production.

Is the market trading on fundamentals or politics? I discussed this and more today on Yahoo Finance’s On the Move.

Last week was jam-packed with economic updates, many of which beat expectations. Faster-than-expected GDP growth in the third quarter and a stronger-than-expected October employment report highlighted a week in which the Fed cut the federal funds rate by 25 bps. This week will be quieter, with notable releases on international trade, the service sector, and consumer confidence.

Last week’s economic updates largely disappointed, with housing sales, durable goods orders, and consumer confidence all declining. Upon closer inspection, however, we found some positive developments, with continued year-over-year housing growth as a highlight. This week will be very busy, with the Fed’s October rate-setting meeting, the first report on third-quarter GDP growth, and the October jobs report all on the docket.

Do I think the stock buyback boom is over? I discussed this and more today on CNBC’s Power Lunch.

Last week, important updates on retail sales, home builders, and industrial production yielded mixed results. This week, we’re expecting some more ups and downs, with updates to come on home sales, durable goods, and consumer confidence.  

Do I think it's going to be a tough earnings season for banks this year? I discussed this and more (my segment begins at 5:31) yesterday afternoon on Bloomberg TV's Bloomberg Markets: The Close.

Last week’s news focused on inflation, consumer confidence, and the minutes from the Fed’s most recent meeting. This week will be another busy one, with reports on retail sales, housing, and industrial production scheduled.