Markets

Breakdown of the latest developments on the global exchanges
Apr 28, 2025, 12:13 PM GMT
#WeeklyExpectations

Key Events to Watch This Week: Canada Elections, US Jobs and PCE data, German CPI and More

Canadian Flag

This week, global financial markets are bracing for a series of pivotal events and data releases that could shape investor sentiment and set the tone for the months ahead. From political shifts in Canada to crucial economic indicators out of the U.S., Germany, China, and Japan, traders and analysts have plenty to monitor.

Canadian Federal Elections: Mark Carney’s Liberals Poised for Victory

Today, Canada is holding its much-anticipated federal elections, with momentum firmly behind the Liberal Party led by Mark Carney. After months of rallying support and building public confidence, the Liberals are widely expected to clinch a decisive victory. Carney, a former Governor of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, has leveraged his economic credentials to gain traction among voters.

A Liberal win could have significant implications for Canadian markets, particularly in sectors like energy, housing, and green technologies, where Carney has promised aggressive reforms and investments. Investors will be closely watching post-election developments for clues on fiscal policies and regulatory changes.

Critical Inflation Data from the U.S. and Germany

On the economic front, inflation data from major economies is set to dominate headlines. In the United States, the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index — the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge — will be released. Economists are forecasting a modest monthly increase of 0.1%, reflecting a potential cooling of price pressures. Markets will dissect this report for any hints about the Fed's next move on interest rates.

Across the Atlantic, Germany will publish its Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures. Analysts expect a 0.4% monthly rise, reinforcing the European Central Bank’s narrative of gradually normalizing monetary policy amid persistent inflation concerns. The German CPI will be a key indicator for broader Eurozone inflation trends and could influence ECB rate expectations.

Chinese Manufacturing PMI: Health Check on the World’s Factory

China, the world’s second-largest economy, will release its latest Manufacturing PMI on Wednesday. This indicator is critical for assessing the health of the global supply chain and overall economic momentum. After recent signs of a fragile recovery, markets will be keen to see whether manufacturing activity continues to expand or falter. A stronger-than-expected PMI could boost risk appetite globally, while a disappointment may reignite fears of a slowdown.

Bank of Japan Rate Decision: Policy Clarity Awaited

On Thursday, the Bank of Japan (BOJ) will announce its monetary policy decision. While economists widely expect the BOJ to keep interest rates unchanged, the central bank is anticipated to offer more detailed guidance on its policy outlook for the coming months. After recently ending its negative interest rate policy, market participants are eager for clues on whether further tightening steps are on the horizon. Any unexpected comments could trigger volatility in the Japanese yen and broader Asian markets.

U.S. Jobs Report: Labor Market Stability in Focus

Rounding out the week, the U.S. will release its April Jobs Report on Friday. Forecasts suggest the economy added 129,000 new nonfarm payrolls during the month. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate is expected to hold steady at 4.2%, and average hourly earnings are predicted to rise by 0.3%.

The labor market’s resilience remains a key pillar supporting consumer spending and economic growth. However, signs of cooling could bolster the case for the Federal Reserve to consider rate cuts later this year. Conversely, a stronger-than-expected report may renew concerns about inflationary pressures and delay any monetary easing.

Conclusion

With a packed calendar of political events and economic releases, this week promises significant moves across equities, currencies, and commodities. Traders and investors should stay alert, as developments from Canada’s election to critical inflation and employment data could shift market dynamics swiftly.

Staying informed and agile will be crucial as the global financial landscape continues to evolve.