Economic Preview: Key Data Releases (week of 30Mar2026)
The upcoming period features several significant economic developments and meetings that may introduce volatility into financial markets. Notably, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is scheduled to speak, and his remarks could influence market movements.
Labor Market Data
Job openings are forecasted at 7.0 million, marking an improvement from the previous figure of 6.9 million. This metric is particularly important given the recent wave of retrenchments and layoffs. Initial jobless claims for March are reported at 210,000, and this statistic will serve as a reference point for the Federal Reserve’s impending interest rate decision.
Additional employment data includes the US employment report, which stands at 45,000 for March. The unemployment rate is projected to rise to 4.5% compared to 4.4% in the prior month. Meanwhile, US hourly wages are expected to increase by 0.3% for March, with year-on-year growth forecasted at 3.8%.
Trade and Consumer Confidence
The US trade deficit for February 2026 is anticipated to reach $61.7 billion, representing an increase from the previous deficit of $54.5 billion in January.
Consumer confidence is forecasted with a median value of 88.0 for March. This continues the ongoing trend of declining consumer confidence, which may lead to more cautious spending behaviours.
Retail Sales and Manufacturing Indicators
US retail sales for February are set to be released, with an expected growth rate of 0.4%. ISM manufacturing is forecasted at 52%.
Manufacturing and Services PMI
S&P’s final US manufacturing PMI for March will be published, following the previous month’s result of 51.6. Additionally, the SMP final US PMI for the services sector will be released, which will provide insight into the sector’s performance after last month’s figure of 51.7.
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