- Markets are watching a busy week of Fed speeches and key U.S. economic data following last week’s rate decision.
- Oil prices fell on Monday, with Brent near $101.71 and WTI around $98.15, adding another factor for markets to monitor.
Global markets are entering a closely watched week as investors assess the Federal Reserve’s next steps, fresh U.S. economic data and continued swings in oil prices.
Wall Street futures moved higher on Monday as oil prices fell around 2%, easing some pressure on Treasury yields. Bitcoin also climbed about 8%, while technology stocks gained in early trading.
The focus now shifts to a series of Federal Reserve speeches following last week’s 25-basis-point rate increase, which lifted the federal funds target range to 3.75%-4%. At least 10 Fed officials are scheduled to speak this week, giving investors several opportunities to assess how policymakers view inflation and the outlook for interest rates.
Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee is scheduled to speak Monday, followed Tuesday by New York Fed President John Williams, Fed Vice Chair Philip Jefferson and Richmond Fed President Thomas Barkin.
Economic Data and Oil Prices Remain in Focus
Economic data will also provide fresh signals. S&P Global’s flash manufacturing and services PMIs are due Wednesday, followed by weekly jobless claims and new home sales on Thursday. Durable goods orders and the revised University of Michigan consumer sentiment reading are scheduled for Friday.
Oil remains another key market variable. Brent crude fell to around $101.71 per barrel on Monday, while WTI slipped to about $98.15 as investors watched developments around the Iran conflict and possible diplomatic efforts.
The combination of Fed commentary, economic data and energy prices could influence expectations for future rate moves and, in turn, broader risk assets including equities and cryptocurrencies.
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