Expectations regarding future sales growth are essentially unchanged from the last survey. Investment and employment intentions have declined from the very high levels reported in the previous survey, but continue to be solid.
Mr. de Rato has been a strong leader and a driving force behind renewing the IMF to meet the global challenges of the 21st century. We at the Bank of Canada are very sorry that he will be leaving. His departure will be a big loss for the international community.
The principal mission of the Bank of Canada is the formulation and implementation of Canada's national monetary policy to promote the economic and financial welfare of the country.