High volatility expected Wednesday for the Fed Interest Rate Decision at 2:00 pm and Powell’s 2:30 pm presser. Thursday at 8:30 am features critical Core PCE inflation and Annualized GDP data, shaping the rate outlook amid recent cooling labor trends. Earlier, S&P Global Manufacturing and Services PMI arrive Friday at 9:45 am. Initial Claims on Thursday at 8:30 am provide further employment context. Traders are monitoring social media for any political pressure regarding potential autumn rate cuts.
Watch for a "dovish hold" on Wednesday to spark a risk-on rally in tech. Prioritize defensive positioning before Thursday's PCE print, as any inflation upside could trigger sharp sell-offs in treasury-sensitive assets.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.