Australia remains hampered by currency and Europe does not look likely to see price strength given producer competition and overcapacity issues.

Imports remain a concern with the currency holding at $US0.75 cents and cost pressures persist, in particular for power and transport.

A lot of that inherent growth in Australia, and strength in the economy, has helped keep those housing volumes up, but we would say by the end of this year or the beginning of next year, all other things being equal, for it to come off slightly.

Retail sales are expected to be down, but worry about Producer Price Index and Consumer Price Index releases Thursday and Friday could keep any bond market rally in check.

Each could make a case. For the vendor, it's not just about the price but also what each bidder can bring to the party.

We believe this is a fair price for Sears Canada. Sears Canada faces tough competition from a slew of retailers, not only in Canada but also those from the U.S. who are making inroads into Canada. And we believe Sears Canada will have a greater opportunity to succeed with the cost savings and the management direction that Sears Holdings would bring with full ownership.