Monday, 14th October:
- China Trade Balance – 04:00am BST: China releases its imports, exports, and trade balance data. Coming just after China’s finance minister’s fiscal policy briefing on Saturday, this release will be critical for traders of China A50 and Hong Kong 50 indices, as it could influence volatility in these markets.
- USD FOMC Member Waller Speaks – 08:00pm BST: A key speech from FOMC member Christopher Waller, which could provide insights into the Federal Reserve’s thinking on future rate changes, especially in light of recent economic data.
Tuesday, 15th October:
- UK Employment Data – 07:00am BST: The UK’s employment figures are essential ahead of the Bank of England’s interest rate decision in November. This report will provide clues on whether unemployment is rising and wage growth is slowing, both of which could impact GBPUSD and the UK 100 index.
- CAD Inflation Data (CPI) – 01:30pm BST: Canadian inflation will be closely watched as the market expects continued rate cuts from the Bank of Canada. A higher-than-expected inflation print could alter expectations, leading to volatility in USDCAD.
- NZD Inflation Data (CPI) – 10:45pm BST: Following last week’s 50bps rate cut from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, this data will be pivotal in determining the future direction of NZDUSD, especially after recent lows.
Wednesday, 16th October:
- UK Inflation Data (CPI) – 07:00am BST: This report will test whether recent remarks from Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey regarding aggressive rate cuts hold true. A weaker inflation figure may prompt further rate cuts, influencing GBPUSD’s direction.
- ECB President Lagarde Speaks – 07:40pm BST: European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde will deliver a speech that may offer clues about the ECB’s policy outlook, influencing EURUSD and European equity indices.
Thursday, 17th October:
- ECB Interest Rate Decision – 01:15pm BST & ECB Press Conference – 01:45pm BST: The European Central Bank is expected to cut rates by 25bps. Markets will focus on the tone of President Lagarde during the press conference, particularly on potential future cuts, which will significantly impact EURUSD and European indices.
- USD Retail Sales – 01:30pm BST: U.S. retail sales data will provide insights into the health of the American consumer. A stronger-than-expected result could boost USD and U.S. stock indices, while a miss might cause a pullback.
- USD Unemployment Claims – 01:30pm BST: The latest figures for initial jobless claims in the U.S. will be released, offering further indications on the state of the labor market. Any surprises could lead to market volatility, especially in the USD.
Friday, 18th October:
- China GDP, Industrial Production & Retail Sales – 03:00am BST: China will release its GDP, industrial production, and retail sales data. These figures will be crucial in determining the direction of local indices such as the China A50, as well as key commodities like oil and copper.
- UK Retail Sales – 07:00am BST: The retail sales data for the UK will be vital, especially ahead of the Bank of England’s next policy meeting. Any deviation from expectations could have a significant impact on GBPUSD and UK 100.
This week is filled with critical events, particularly the ECB interest rate decision and Chinese economic data, which will shape market sentiment globally.
