This week, global markets are set to focus on a series of pivotal economic data releases and remarks from central bankers, which will provide insights into the trajectory of the global economy amid ongoing inflationary pressures and concerns about slowing growth.
The US will dominate market attention with two major data points: Wednesday’s JOLTS (Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey) and Friday’s highly anticipated jobs report. Economists are forecasting an increase of 200,000 jobs for November, while the unemployment rate is expected to edge up slightly to 4.1%. These reports will be scrutinized for signs of labor market resilience or softening, which will influence the Federal Reserve's policy decisions. A tighter-than-expected labor market could reignite concerns about inflation, potentially prompting the Fed to keep interest rates higher for longer.
In addition to the labor data, a series of remarks from Federal Reserve officials, including Chair Jerome Powell on Wednesday, will be key market movers. Powell’s comments, along with those of at least eight other Fed officials scheduled to speak throughout the week, will provide insight into how policymakers view inflation, economic growth, and the labor market. With the Fed holding rates steady at its most recent meeting, markets are keen to hear any hints of a potential rate hike in 2024 or indications of when cuts might occur.
Outside of the US, China’s Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) will be a major focus as markets assess the strength of the world’s second-largest economy amid its bumpy post-pandemic recovery. Other key Asian economies will also release PMI data this week, providing further insights into the region’s manufacturing activity and economic health. A slowing Chinese economy could add to global growth concerns, potentially impacting commodities and emerging market currencies.
In Europe, all eyes will be on European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde as she gives testimony to parliament. Markets will be listening closely for signals about the ECB’s approach to combating inflation, especially as growth in the Eurozone remains sluggish. Meanwhile, the Bank of Japan’s board member Toyoaki Nakamura will speak on Japan’s economic outlook, with investors eager for any updates on the central bank’s monetary policy.
In France, budgetary negotiations will continue, but the government's position appears fragile. President Emmanuel Macron’s administration faces opposition within the legislature, and there is growing concern that failure to pass the budget could lead to political instability, adding another layer of uncertainty to European markets.
In summary, the coming week promises to be a critical period for global markets, with data releases and central bank commentary likely to set the tone for the remainder of the year.