THE WEEK AHEAD

Some of the major business and economic events scheduled for this week:

TODAY

Realtors release existing-home sales figures for November.

TUESDAY

Conference Board releases results of its monthly survey on consumer confidence.

WEDNESDAY

Labor Department releases weekly report on unemployment claims.

Conference Board releases leading economic indicators for November.

THURSDAY

New Year’s Day. Most financial markets around the world are closed.

FRIDAY

National Assn. of Purchasing Management releases its business survey for December.

Federal Reserve Board releases consumer credit report for December.