Introduction to This Week’s Economic Events
This week investors will be watching inflation trends, central bank commentary, and housing market indicators as the global economy continues to digest rate decisions. Here’s what to keep an eye on from Monday 22 September.
Australia’s Economic Indicators
Australia has several key economic events this week. On Monday 22 September, Reserve Bank (RBA) Governor Michelle Bullock speaks at the House of Representatives. Market watchers will be parsing every word for clues on monetary policy direction.
Tuesday’s Events
On Tuesday 23 September, the S&P Global purchasing managers’ indexes (PMI, Sep.) will be released. The composite PMI may fall from 55.5 to 50.4, pointing to slower momentum in the economy.
Wednesday’s Events
On Wednesday 24 September, the Monthly consumer price index (CPI) indicator (August) will be announced. Headline CPI could ease from 2.8% to 2.7% as cost-of-living pressures start to show signs of moderating.
Thursday’s Events
On Thursday 25 September, National accounts: Finance & Wealth (June quarter) will be released, supported by rising home and share prices. This will provide a useful insight into household balance sheets. Additionally, Job vacancies (August) will be announced, with vacancies expected to increase 1.0% in the quarter. This will be a key signal for the resilience of the labour market.
Overseas Economic Indicators
Monday’s Events
On Monday 22 September, China 1-year & 5-year loan prime rates (September) will be announced, with no change in short-term rates expected. The US Chicago Fed national activity index (August) will also be released, tipped to edge up from -0.19 to -0.17, suggesting moderate growth.
Tuesday’s Events
On Tuesday 23 September, the US S&P Global PMIs (September) will be announced, with the composite PMI expected to dip from 55.1 to 54.1, potentially signalling weaker output. US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell will also give a speech on the US economic outlook, which could set the tone for expectations ahead of the next Fed meeting.
Wednesday’s Events
On Wednesday 24 September, US new home sales (August) will be released, tipped to inch up 0.1%, signaling underlying demand resilience.
Thursday’s Events
On Thursday 25 September, US existing home sales (August) will be announced, which could fall 0.8% as affordability challenges remain in focus. The US advance goods trade balance (August) will also be released, with a deficit of US$95.2bn expected. This will provide clues on global supply chain trends.
Friday’s Events
On Friday 26 September, US personal income & spending (August) will be released, with income expected to lift 0.3% and spending up 0.5%, helping to sustain soft landing hopes. The US core PCE price index (August) will also be announced, with the annual growth rate expected to be steady at 2.9%. This is the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge.
Key Themes to Watch
- Australia: Job vacancy data, CPI, and the Governor’s speech will anchor expectations ahead of the next RBA move.
- US: GDP, PCE, and multiple housing reads will shape market views on the Fed’s path into Q4.
- China: Loan prime rate holds steady—investors watching for broader support measures.
Conclusion
This week’s economic events will provide valuable insights into the current state of the global economy. Investors will be closely watching the inflation trends, central bank commentary, and housing market indicators to make informed decisions. With key events in Australia, the US, and China, it’s shaping up to be an exciting week for investors. Check back next Monday for the latest investor calendar for more updates on the global economy.
