A new week is here, and markets are already lining up plenty to watch.

US inflation numbers are the main event, with several other high impact releases that could move the dollar, gold, and global equities.

At the same time, geopolitical developments remain a key driver of risk sentiment across global assets. Let’s break down what to expect in the week ahead.

Calendar Events   

  • Japan Final Q4 GDP – Mar. 10
  • Germany Final CPI – Mar. 11
  • US CPI – Mar. 11
  • UK GDP – Mar. 13
  • Canada Unemployment Rate – Mar. 13
  • US Core PCE Index – Mar. 13
  • US Prelim GDP – Mar. 13
  • US Durable Goods – Mar. 13
  • US JOLTS Job Openings – Mar. 13
  • US University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment – Mar. 13

Top Things to Watch  

Middle East Tensions & Market Ripples

Ongoing geopolitical headlines continue to influence broader market mood and commodity pricing.

Oil markets remain particularly sensitive to any signs of supply disruption, while the USD and gold continue to attract safe-haven demand as investors hedge against uncertainty and potential escalation in the region. Possibilities of rising inflation due to surged oil prices have caused traders to scale back on rate cuts from the Federal Reserve.

Brent Crude Oil 4H Chart / Source: TradingView 

US Inflation and Growth Take Center Stage

All eyes are on Wednesday’s US CPI report. Will inflation show signs of cooling, or will it stay stubbornly high? The outcome could quickly reshape expectations for the Fed’s next move.

Later in the week, a flurry of key data, including Core PCE, GDP, JOLTS, Durable Goods, and Consumer Sentiment, could paint a clearer picture of growth, jobs, and confidence.

UK GDP to Offer a Fresh Read on Activity

UK GDP on Friday will offer an updated snapshot of economic activity, giving investors insight into whether the economy is stabilizing or continuing to face growth challenges.

The data will be closely watched for its potential impact on expectations for the Bank of England’s policy outlook, particularly as markets assess the balance between slowing growth and persistent inflation pressures.

Canada’s Jobs Report: A Key Test for Labor Market Strength

Canada’s labor market report will be a key test of how resilient job growth remains. Any meaningful surprise could shift expectations around the Bank of Canada’s outlook and the direction of rates.

Japan Final Q4 GDP

Tuesday’s final Q4 GDP data will reveal whether Japan’s economy gained or lost momentum at the end of last year. Investors will be watching for clues on how this might shape the Bank of Japan’s next steps.