As central banks across major economies gear up for a critical week, financial markets will be closely watching policy decisions from the U.S., Japan, the UK, and Norway, alongside top-tier economic data releases. The combination of central bank actions, economic indicators, and evolving inflation trends will set the stage for near-term market dynamics and long-term monetary policy directions.

U.S. Federal Reserve: Rate Cuts and Economic Projections

The Federal Reserve is anticipated to commence its long-awaited easing cycle, with market expectations leaning toward a 25-basis-point cut, which would bring the Federal Funds rate to a range of 5.00% to 5.25%. LSEG’s FEDWATCH currently assigns a 55% probability to this outcome, though there remains speculation that a more aggressive 50 bps cut could also be on the table. The real market impact will be in the Fed’s economic projections, policy statement, and the follow-up press conference, where any signals about the future trajectory of monetary policy will be scrutinized.

The U.S. faces a busy data week, with retail sales, industrial production, housing figures, weekly jobless claims, and the Philly Fed Index all set for release. These figures will be crucial in determining whether the U.S. economy is in a soft-landing scenario or whether the Fed will need to maintain its focus on battling inflation. Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s tone during the press conference will also be pivotal in shaping market sentiment, particularly regarding any hints about the duration of the expected easing cycle.

Bank of England: Inflation and Rate Path Uncertainty

The Bank of England (BoE) is widely expected to hold rates steady at 5.00% at its upcoming meeting, with markets pricing in a 69% chance of no change. However, attention will shift toward the BoE’s monetary policy summary and press conference, where policymakers could signal the next steps in their tightening or easing cycle. Markets are currently expecting a 30-basis-point rate cut in November and a 51-basis-point reduction by December, underscoring the growing expectations that the BoE may need to ease monetary policy if inflationary pressures continue to recede.

The UK will release crucial inflation data this week, including CPI and PPI figures on Wednesday, which could alter the trajectory of BoE rate expectations. Retail sales data will also be released on Friday, giving further insight into the state of consumer demand and potential inflation risks.

Bank of Japan: Policy Decision Amid Economic Data Releases

Japan will experience a flurry of economic activity following Monday’s public holiday. Machinery orders, trade data, and inflation reports are due, with the Bank of Japan (BOJ) expected to hold rates steady at 0.25% during its policy meeting on Friday. Although inflation has been rising, the BOJ is unlikely to change its ultra-accommodative stance in the near term. However, markets anticipate a rate hike could be in the cards for 2024 if inflation continues to climb.

The BOJ’s press conference will be key to understanding the central bank’s outlook on inflation and any adjustments to its yield curve control policy. As Japan continues to experience moderate inflationary pressures, the BOJ may face growing calls to transition to a more hawkish stance in the coming months.

Eurozone: Data and Central Bank Sentiment

While the European Central Bank (ECB) is not holding a policy meeting this week, several key data releases and scheduled speeches by ECB officials, including President Christine Lagarde, will influence market sentiment. The Eurozone will release final August HICP inflation data, September consumer confidence, and the influential German ZEW survey. These indicators will provide insights into the health of the Eurozone economy and the persistence of inflationary pressures.

ECB officials are likely to reiterate their commitment to tackling inflation, but any signs of dovishness could shift expectations regarding future rate hikes. With inflation still above target levels, the ECB’s focus will remain on inflation management, even as economic growth in the region shows signs of softening.