41.   Although two reports showed that retail sales rose last week, the figures may have been skewed by the effects of cold weather in prior weeks, analysts said.

42.   Although the government lowered its growth estimate, analysts said the report shows a decline in inventories that may presage a strong first-quarter growth figure.

43.   An Agriculture Department report Tuesday showed most crops in good to excellent condition.

44.   An ACNielsen report showed that most of this increase was due to higher prices of goods rather than the amount of goods sold.

45.   Analysts said the employment report showed that a slowing economy will reduce the need for the Federal Reserve to boost rates.

46.   Analysts said the report showed inflation remained benign.

47.   An Agriculture Department report showed spring planting proceeding smoothly.

48.   And an industry report yesterday showed back-to-school clothing sales failed to meet analysts expectations.

49.   Analysts expect the report to show that prices at the wholesale level rose at a little faster pace in September than in August, though inflation still remains subdued.

50.   Analysts had expected the report to show manufacturing output unchanged for a second consecutive month.