This week, investors will be focused on Australia’s latest inflation data alongside global manufacturing reads and central bank signals. With geopolitical tensions adding uncertainty to the outlook, markets will be watching whether inflation pressures continue to build and how that shapes the path for interest rates.
As usual, this information comes to us from the experts at CommSec.
Monday March 23
S&P Global Manufacturing PMI (March)
Australia’s composite PMI is tipped to come in around 54.7, signalling continued expansion in business activity.
Tuesday March 24
US Manufacturing PMI (March)
The US composite PMI is expected around 50.5 — hovering near the line between expansion and contraction.
Europe Manufacturing PMI (March)
The eurozone reading is forecast near 52, suggesting modest growth in activity.
Wednesday March 25
Consumer Price Index (CPI, February)
Annual inflation is expected to rise to around 3.9%, up from 3.8% previously — a key test following the RBA’s recent rate hike.
US PMI follow-through
Markets will continue to digest global manufacturing trends after the early-week releases.
Thursday March 26
US Initial Jobless Claims
Weekly claims are expected around 215,000 — a steady read on labour market conditions.
Japan Core CPI (February)
Core inflation is forecast to lift around 1.3% year-on-year.
Friday March 27
University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment (March)
Sentiment is expected around 55.5, still subdued compared to last year.
Key themes to watch
- Inflation pressure: Australia’s CPI will be critical for expectations around further RBA tightening.
- Global activity: PMI readings across Australia, the US and Europe provide a timely read on growth momentum.
- Labour stability: US jobless claims remain a key real-time signal of employment conditions.
- Geopolitics: Ongoing Middle East tensions may continue to influence energy prices and inflation expectations.
Check back next week for the latest investor calendar, only on Switzer.
