It’s a data-heavy week to round out the month, with key inflation prints in Australia, central bank updates from Japan and the US, and fresh reads on business confidence, manufacturing and employment. Investors will be watching for signs that central banks are gaining confidence that inflation is easing without hurting growth.
Tuesday January 27
NAB Business Confidence (Australia)
Business sentiment could shape expectations for hiring and capex.
US Durable Goods Orders (December)
Seen as a gauge of manufacturing momentum — especially in big-ticket items.
Wednesday January 28
Australia Q4 Consumer Price Index (CPI)
The key inflation print for the quarter — any upside surprise could complicate the RBA’s policy path.
Bank of Japan (BoJ) Meeting Minutes
Markets will look for any hints about the timing of the next policy adjustment.
US Conference Board Consumer Confidence (January)
Confidence levels can foreshadow consumer spending trends.
Thursday January 29
ANZ Business Confidence (Australia & NZ)
Offers a forward-looking view on economic sentiment in the region.
US Federal Reserve (FOMC) Meeting
The Fed is widely expected to keep rates steady — commentary will be key for timing any cuts.
Friday January 30
Australia Q4 Producer Price Index (PPI)
An early signal of cost pressures flowing through the economy.
US Initial Jobless Claims
Seen as a real-time barometer of labour market health.
US Factory Orders (December)
Data expected to provide insight into manufacturing demand and investment appetite.
Saturday January 31
China NBS Manufacturing PMI (January)
The first look at manufacturing activity for the new year — markets will watch for signs of recovery.
Key themes to watch
- Inflation watch: Australia’s CPI and PPI will help guide the Reserve Bank’s tone in February.
- Fed direction: Commentary out of the FOMC will be closely watched after the December rate cut.
- Japan policy shift? BoJ minutes may offer clues on how long current settings will last.
- Confidence reads: Business and consumer sentiment indicators give an early steer on Q1 conditions.
Check back next week for the latest investor calendar — only on Switzer.
