Week Ahead: Economic Indicators (US)

For the December 30th week, here is a list of the major economic indicators released during the US Session.

Tuesday 31st December
New Year’s Eve (Bonds close early, stocks trade regular hours)

Wednesday 1st January
New Year’s Day (Markets Closed)

Thursday 2nd January
09:45 ET
US S&P Manufacturing PMI December Final
The US S&P Manufacturing PMI is a monthly economic indicator that measures the performance of the manufacturing sector.
It is based on surveys of purchasing managers, assessing factors such as production, new orders, employment, supplier deliveries, and inventories.
As a diffusion index, a reading above 50 indicates expansion, while below 50 signals contraction. The index provides insights into business conditions, economic trends, and manufacturing growth.
What to Expect
A higher-than-expected read in Manufacturing activity would be likely to cause strength across the US assets (stocks, dollar, and bond yields), though if the report makes any alarming mentions on the employment situation expanding or contracting more than anticipated, this could lead to a more mixed reaction, as traders take this information and weigh it against future US rate cut expectations.

11:00 ET
US Weekly EIA Crude Oil Inventories
The US Weekly EIA Crude Oil Inventories report, released by the Energy Information Administration, measures the weekly change in the amount of crude oil held in US commercial storage facilities.
It’s a key indicator for energy markets, as it reflects the balance between oil supply and demand.
What to Expect
An increase in inventories suggests lower demand or higher production, often putting downward pressure on oil prices, while a decrease can indicate higher demand or reduced production, typically pushing prices up.

Friday 3rd January
10:00 ET
US ISM Manufacturing PMI for December
The US ISM Manufacturing PMI is a widely followed monthly indicator of economic health for the manufacturing sector, compiled by the Institute for Supply Management.
It surveys purchasing managers on aspects like new orders, production, employment, supplier deliveries, and inventories.
As a diffusion index, a reading above 50 signals expansion, while below 50 indicates contraction. The ISM Manufacturing PMI is closely watched as a barometer of industrial activity and broader economic trends.
What to Expect
A higher-than-expected read in Manufacturing activity would be likely to cause strength across the US assets (stocks, dollar, and bond yields), though if the report makes any alarming mentions on the employment situation expanding or contracting more than anticipated, this could lead to a more mixed reaction, as traders take this information and weigh it against future US rate cut expectations.