This week is set to be a crucial period for global financial markets, with a series of significant economic indicators and central bank decisions on the horizon. These events have the potential to impact monetary policy, currency valuations, and overall market sentiment. Investors and policymakers will be closely monitoring these releases to gauge the health of major economies and anticipate future trends towards the end of 2024.
Monday, 23rd September:
Eurozone, France, Germany, UK, and US Flash PMI Data: These Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) readings will provide early insight into the manufacturing sector's health and can significantly influence market sentiment towards the economy.
Tuesday, 24th September:
US Consumer Confidence Index (September): This index measures consumer optimism about the economy. Higher confidence often correlates with increased consumer spending, a key driver of economic growth.
RBA Interest Rate Decision: The RBA's decision can affect the Australian dollar and provide insights into the country's economic outlook. Changes in rates can impact borrowing costs and economic growth.
Wednesday, 25th September:
US New Home Sales Data (August): New home sales data provides insights into the housing market and broader economic conditions, as housing is a sector that can significantly impact overall economic growth.
Riksbank Interest Rate Decision: The Swedish central bank's decision can influence the krona and provide insights into the Nordic region's economic outlook.
Thursday, 26th September:
US Q2 GDP (Final Reading): The final GDP reading for Q2 2024 will confirm the pace of economic growth, and as a comprehensive measure of economic activity it can significantly impact market sentiment.
US Initial Jobless Claims: Weekly jobless claims data provides a timely snapshot of the labour market's health, with lower claims typically indicating a stronger job market.
SNB Interest Rate Decision: The SNB's rate decision can impact the Swiss franc and provide insights into Switzerland's economic outlook, which is often seen as a barometer for global financial stability.
Friday, 27th September:
US PCE Index (August): The Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) index is the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation measure, and this data can influence the Fed's monetary policy decisions and market expectations for interest rates.
France, Spain, and Japan CPI Data: Consumer Price Index (CPI) data measures inflation, influencing central bank policy decisions and impacting currency valuations.
This week presents a busy period for investors, with various economic indicators and central bank decisions shaping market perceptions and potentially influencing future policy decisions. The US PCE index on Friday will be particularly significant as it may impact the Federal Reserve's future interest rate decisions in November. Investors and policymakers will closely monitor these releases to assess the current state of major economies and anticipate future trends in the ever-changing global markets.