(Part 1 of 5) Economic Review for week starting 26Jan2026 - Fed's interest rate decision and PPI
Economic Preview: Key Data Releases for January 2026 (week of 26Jan2026)
This week features several key economic indicators and events that will offer insights into the economy's health. On Monday, durable goods orders for November will be released. This data serves as a key measure of consumption and investment in the economy. Alongside this, the Conference Board (CB) Consumer Confidence Index for January will be published. The previous index reading was 89.1, which pointed to declining consumer confidence.
Additionally, President Trump is scheduled to deliver a speech on Wednesday, January 28. This event has the potential to introduce volatility to the markets, depending on the topics addressed and the market’s reaction.
Crude oil inventory data will also be updated in the coming week. This information is closely watched as an indicator of trends among oil producers and is particularly relevant given ongoing changes in demand and consumption patterns.
Perhaps the most anticipated economic decision this week is the Federal Reserve’s interest rate announcement. According to various market surveys, the forecast is for the interest rate to remain unchanged at 3.75%. The outcome of this decision will be closely monitored by investors and analysts alike.
Other notable releases include initial jobless claims data, with the previous figure standing at 200,000. This metric provides a timely indication of labour market conditions.
The Producer Price Index (PPI) for December, released on a month-over-month basis, is another important data point this week. The PPI reflects inflation faced by producers, and can act as a leading indicator of inflationary pressures that may eventually be passed on to consumers.
Additionally, the Chicago Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for January will be reported. The previous reading was 42.7, indicating a contraction in manufacturing activity.
Finally, China’s manufacturing PMI for January will also be released. The prior figure was 50.1, suggesting a slight expansion in the country’s manufacturing sector. Is this a reflection of China’s domestic manufacturing or a reflection of the global demand?
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