National Business

TORONTO — Canada's main stock index edged lower in late-morning trading as the financial, industrial and metals and mining sectors pulled back, while U.S. stock markets were mixed. The S&P/TSX composite index was down 2.94 points at 17,271.31.

BRP Inc. topped expectations Wednesday as it reported its third-quarter profit rose compared with a year ago and raised its guidance for its full financial year.

WASHINGTON — U.S. consumers increased their spending by a sluggish 0.

WASHINGTON — Orders to U.S. factories for big-ticket manufactured goods showed a modest gain in October but much of the strength came from a big jump in orders for military equipment.

KINGSEY FALLS, Que. — Cascades Inc. says it will close its napkin plant in Laval, Que., at the end of June next year. The plant currently employs 54 workers.

TORONTO — Toymaker Spin Master Corp. has announced a deal to develop toys and games based on the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts movies. The company says it has signed a global licensing agreement with Warner Bros.

MONTREAL — CAE Inc. has signed a deal with Textron to buy TRU Simulation + Training Canada Inc. for US$40 million. The company says the acquisition of expands its installed base of commercial flight simulators and customers.

EDMONTON — Finance Minister Travis Toews says COVID-19 will affect Alberta’s economy for the next couple of years and perhaps beyond, but projections are encouraging.

LAVAL, Que. — Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc.'s profits increased from last year in the three months ending Oct. 11, as shoppers consolidated shopping trips to convenience stores amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

TORONTO — Some of the most active companies traded Tuesday on the Toronto Stock Exchange: Toronto Stock Exchange (17,274.25, up 179.72 points) Aurora Cannabis Inc. (TSX: ACB). Health care. Up $2.60, or 27.69 per cent, at $11.99 on 15.