Investors on Wall Street will turn their attention to a crucial batch of US economic data in the week ahead, with inflation figures likely to play a key role in shaping expectations for the Federal Reserve’s September policy decision.
The market will closely track the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) reports, which are due before the Fed’s September 15-16 meeting.
The inflation readings assume greater importance after the US economy delivered a stronger-than-expected employment report for August.
US employers added 162,000 jobs during the month, significantly exceeding economists’ expectations.
The strong jobs report has increased market expectations for a September rate hike. Investors will therefore scrutinise the CPI and PPI figures for signs of whether inflationary pressures are continuing to ease or remain persistent.
Apart from economic data, corporate earnings will provide another important focus for investors.
Results from technology companies including Oracle and Adobe will be closely watched, particularly for clues about corporate spending and demand for technology and artificial-intelligence-related products.
Investors will also monitor results from consumer-focused companies such as Kroger as they assess the health of household spending and the broader US economy.
