Core PPI and Jobless Claims arrive Thursday at 8:30 am, followed by Michigan Consumer Sentiment Friday at 10:00 am. High volatility expected Wednesday for Retail Sales at 8:30 am and the critical FOMC interest rate decision at 2:00 pm. With markets eyeing the Fed's "dot plot" projections, Powell’s 2:30 pm presser will dictate near-term rate expectations. Traders should brace for significant price action as these metrics clarify the Fed's path amid persistent inflation concerns.
Monitor PPI for early inflation signals and maintain tight stops during Wednesday's FOMC announcement. Watch the Retail Sales control group for consumer strength; any deviation could trigger sharp moves in equity and bond markets.
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.