This week brings a lighter run of Australian data in a holiday-shortened period, but global markets remain busy with key US labour indicators and activity data. Investors will also be watching for any signs of easing geopolitical tensions, which have recently influenced energy prices and broader market sentiment.
As usual, this information comes to us from the experts at CommSec.
Tuesday March 31
RBA minutes (March policy meeting)
The minutes will be closely examined for insight into the 25-basis-point rate hike to 4.10%, including the reported split among board members.
Private sector credit (February)
Credit growth is expected to lift around 7.7% year-on-year, reflecting ongoing borrowing activity.
Wednesday April 1
Building approvals (February)
Approvals are expected to rebound 4.5% month-on-month after a sharp 7.2% fall in January.
US ADP employment change (March)
Private payrolls increased by 63,000 in February, with markets watching for signs of continued hiring momentum.
US retail sales (February)
Spending is tipped to fall 0.2% in the month, suggesting some softness in consumer demand.
US ISM manufacturing PMI (March)
Manufacturing activity is forecast around 52.1, indicating modest expansion.
Thursday April 2
Goods trade balance (February)
Australia recorded a $2.63 billion surplus in January, with markets watching for any shift in trade dynamics.
US initial jobless claims
Weekly claims are expected to come in around 211,000 — a steady read on labour conditions.
Friday April 3
US nonfarm payrolls (March)
Around 51,000 jobs are expected to be added, pointing to a gradual cooling in the labour market.
US unemployment rate (March)
The jobless rate is forecast to hold steady at 4.4%.
US PMI (final, March)
The final composite reading follows a preliminary estimate of 51.4.
Financial markets closed (Australia)
Markets are shut for the Good Friday public holiday.
Key themes to watch
- RBA insight: Minutes from the March meeting may clarify how close the board was to holding rates.
- Labour market trends: US payrolls and jobless claims will guide expectations for the Federal Reserve.
- Consumer momentum: Retail sales data will offer clues on the strength of household spending.
- Holiday impact: A shortened trading week may reduce liquidity and amplify market moves.
Check back next week for the latest investor calendar, only on Switzer.
