Stocks were due for a breather. Last week they finally got it.
Of course, in this unusual environment that dishes out extremes (and often unfettered) rallies and pullbacks, last week’s weakness also poses the distinct possibility that a much bigger correction is now underway. The market did, after all, bump into a well-established ceiling. On the other hand, Friday’s tumble left the door wide open to a quick rebound early this week.
We’ll show you how and why below. First, let’s take a look at last week’s economic news and preview this weeks. With earnings season winding down, a couple of this week’s data nuggets have the potential to be the big market movers.
Economic Data
Last week was rather light in terms of economic announcements. In fact, there was only one data set of interest, but it was a biggie… July’s inflation data. It’s still on the rise, for consumers as well as producers. In fact, it’s continuing to press onward and upward to concerning levels.
Inflation Charts
Source: Thomson Reuters
As of the latest look, the overall, annualized consumer inflation rate is 2.95%. That’s the highest it’s been since 2011. Though the root cause of the rise in inflation is a strengthening economy, the Fed has little choice but to proceed with its planned rate hikes.
Everything else is on the grid.
Economic Calendar
Source: Briefing.com
This week is going to be considerably busier. We’ll only be able to preview the highlights.
The party starts on Wednesday, when we’ll hear about last month’s retail spending. Sales are once again expected to rise, with or without automobile sales factored in. The ongoing improvement in consumerism bodes well for the U.S. economy, which is two-thirds driven by consumers rather than corporations.
Retail Sales Charts
Source: Thomson Reuters
