The holidays give us all a chance to rest and relax, and get a fresh start to the New Year. The government is already running full steam with several big announcements and reports due to come out next week.

We’re giving you the heads up on these important dates, so that you can keep your business ahead of the competition.

Monday January 4:

Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI)
The Pricewaterhouse Coopers PMI is a seasonal composite of Australian Manufacturing based on indices for production, new orders, deliveries, inventories and employments rates. If offshore manufacturing affects your business, take advantage of the report’s summary of other leading countries’ statistics. A PMI reading above 50 points indicates manufacturing is expanding; below 50 points that it’s declining.

For more information visit www.aigroup.com.au

Tuesday January 5:

Home Sales Figures (from Housing Industry Association)
The HIA’s Economic Group is Australia’s leading provider of housing statistics including industry conditions, emerging trends, future scenarios and forecasts. The report can help shed some light on this year’s expectations if you are involved with the building industry.

For more information visit www.economics.hia.com.au

Wednesday January 6:

Building Approval Data
Judging from November’s better-than-expected Building Approval Data, 2010 should have a ‘hot’ housing sector. However, as interest rise for the 4th month in February, it will add some negative pressure to the upwards trend.

Visit Australian Bureau of Statistics for the release and more information.

Performance of Services Index

The Australian Industry Group’s index, in association with Commonweath Bank, gives a clear picture of the national services sector, which accounts for a significant amount of Australia’s GDP.

Visit the PSI page at www.aigroup.com.au

Thursday January 7:

International Trade & Retail Sales Figures
As one of Census’ most known reports, it provides an overview of the country’s retail trends, which have been favourable over the last few months. Released monthly, it will show the effect that rising interest rates will have on sales.

Visit Australian Bureau of Statistics at www.abs.gov.au

Check back soon for more tips to keep your business in top shape, and further analysis on the above indicators. If most of the indicators show positive results, and you are in a confident position with your business, it may be a good time to start thinking about expanding. Feel free to ask our Advisors about the cashflow necessary for expansion, and ensuring your business is equipped to handle an increased demand.