Australia’s CPI, U.S. core PCE, and RBNZ policy decision highlight a week packed with market-moving economic releases.
Markets face a busy week with critical inflation data and central bank announcements. Australia’s April CPI report, due Wednesday, is expected to show a monthly rise of 0.6%, down from 1.1% in March, while annual inflation is projected at 4.4%, easing from 4.6%. Trimmed mean CPI is forecast at 0.3% month-on-month. Analysts warn fuel price pressures from the Middle East conflict may now be spreading beyond energy sectors, with Westpac predicting a 0.9% monthly gain and 4.8% annual inflation.
The U.S. will dominate Thursday with core PCE price index, preliminary GDP, durable goods orders, and new home sales data. Japan’s core CPI and Canada’s GDP figures close the week, while FOMC speakers and month-end rebalancing flows add further volatility. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s policy decision on Wednesday will also draw attention amid global inflation concerns.
Traders will watch for signs of persistent price pressures, particularly in services and non-energy sectors, as central banks weigh further policy tightening.