August initial release was 0. D Previous was -2.5% (revised -2.2%) September initial estimate -0.5 P August ex cars 0.7% vs 0. % expected – best 5 months Previous ex car -3.1% (revised -2) . %) Sales rose in six of 11 sub-sectors Sales excluding autos and gas 0.9D This is one of the largest deviations since Statistics Canada began releasing preliminary estimates. Checks are also higher. In particular, the preliminary estimate for September shows a slowdown, with much of the growth coming from food and grocery stores, which represent inflation, not activity. Sports stores were also strong as children returned to full activity after the pandemic. At limit, it is more likely to push the BOC to a bigger rally and maintain a hawkish stance, but not as strong as the headline suggests.