ThinkAhead - Key Data Releases Amidst Uncertainties...

Global markets were closed on Friday due to Good Friday, and some markets will have a shortened week as Monday was also a public holiday for Easter. As investors return to trading desks, they will be closely watching key data releases and earnings reports in various economies around the world.
 

In the United States, the non-farm payrolls data for March came in roughly in line with expectations. Nonfarm payrolls grew by 236,000, slightly below the Dow Jones estimate of 238,000 and lower than the upwardly revised figure of 326,000 in February. The unemployment rate ticked lower to 3.5% due to an increase in labor force participation, against expectations that it would hold at 3.6%. Investors are now eagerly awaiting the release of U.S. inflation data set for Wednesday, as well as the FOMC meeting minutes. Earnings data from major banks such as JPMorgan, Wells Fargo, and Citi are also expected later in the week, which could provide further insight into the health of the U.S. economy.
 

In China, the inflation rate for March will be released, which will be closely watched for any signs of inflationary pressures in the world's second-largest economy. In the United Kingdom, GDP numbers for February will be released, providing an update on the economic performance of the country amidst ongoing Brexit uncertainties.
 

In South Africa, mining production numbers and manufacturing production numbers are expected this week. Both sets of data are anticipated to show further deceleration in activity due to the intensity of rotational power cuts, which have become a daily reality in the country in 2023. Energy-intensive sectors such as manufacturers and miners have been particularly impacted by these power cuts, casting a shadow on the outlook for the global economy.
 

Additionally, on Friday, U.S. retail sales data will be released, which will provide insight into consumer spending trends in the world's largest economy.
 

Overall, this week's trading in global markets is expected to be impacted by the shortened trading week due to holidays and the release of key economic data from major economies. Investors will be closely monitoring these data releases and earnings reports for clues on the direction of global economic growth and potential market trends.