Keyword → Fed policy

Retail Sales, Warsh Hearing, and Expiring Ceasefire: The Three Macro Events That Will Define This Week's Market Direction

Beyond the earnings deluge, three macro catalysts will determine whether the stock market's historic April rally can hold or unravel this week: Tuesday's retail sales data for March, expected at plus 1.4% month-over-month and closely watched as a consumer health indicator; Kevin Warsh's Fed chair confirmation hearing also Tuesday; and the Wednesday expiration of the US-Iran ceasefire, which now appears at serious risk of collapse following the weekend ship seizure and Hormuz re-closure.

Consumer Confidence Hits Lowest Since 2020 as Inflation Expectations Surge; Recession Watch Intensifies

The Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Index fell sharply to 88.3 in March, its lowest reading since the pandemic lows of 2020, as one-year inflation expectations jumped to 5.8% — the highest since 2022 — in a combination that is forcing economists to sharply revise their recession probability models and raising fresh questions about the durability of U.S. consumer spending.

Wall Street Braces for AI Disruption and Key Jobs Data in Market Week Ahead

U.S. markets are entering a pivotal week with artificial intelligence disruption looming large over investor expectations and volatility. As traders await critical jobs and inflation data, shifting sentiment on AI’s role in corporate spending is expected to influence sector performance and drive stock rotation across major indices.

Soft Inflation Data Adds to Rate Cut Considerations

New inflation figures showed smaller-than-expected CPI increases in January, reinforcing expectations for potential Federal Reserve rate cuts in coming months. While markets reacted modestly, rate-sensitive sectors like real estate and financials could see renewed interest if cut timing becomes clearer.

S&P 500 Surpasses 7,000 for First Time as U.S. Equities Rally on AI Optimism

The S&P 500 index advanced past the 7,000 mark on January 28, 2026, marking an all-time high fueled by strong investor confidence in artificial intelligence-driven earnings growth and hopes for continued supportive monetary policy. Major technology and semiconductor stocks led the gains, with sentiment bolstered by robust forecasts ahead of quarterly earnings from key technology firms.

Mortgage Rates End 2025 at a Yearly Low, Potential Boost for Housing and Finance

Mortgage rates in the United States have fallen to their lowest levels of 2025, offering potential stimulus for homebuyers, mortgage lenders, and housing-related stocks as the market looks toward 2026.