Weekly High Impact News Preview
After last week’s heavy-hitting Nonfarm Payrolls and inflation data, traders barely have time to breathe as another wave of high-impact news rolls in. This week, all eyes shift toward central banks, with the Fed and Bank of England preparing to take centre stage. Volatility is expected to remain elevated, and traders should prepare accordingly.
Here’s what to watch:
Monday, May 5
07:30 (CHF) – Swiss Consumer Price Index (YoY, Apr)
A key inflation measure from Switzerland. A higher-than-expected print may fuel speculation about policy shifts from the SNB.
15:00 (USD) – ISM Services PMI (Apr)
An important read on the health of the US services sector. Watch closely for signs of economic softening or resilience.
Tuesday, May 6
02:45 (CNY) – Caixin Services PMI (Apr)
A snapshot of Chinese private sector activity. Can China maintain momentum amidst global uncertainty?
23:45 (NZD) – Employment Change & Unemployment Rate (Q1)
Labour market data out of New Zealand. A surprise in either direction could jolt NZD pairs.
Wednesday, May 7 – The Main Event
10:00 (EUR) – Retail Sales (YoY, Mar)
Consumption trends across Europe remain under scrutiny.
19:00 (USD) – Fed Interest Rate Decision & Statement
No rate change is expected, but language and tone will be under the microscope as markets assess whether the Fed leans more dovish or hawkish.
19:30 (USD) – FOMC Press Conference
Jerome Powell’s post-decision remarks often move markets more than the decision itself. Expect sharp volatility in USD crosses and US indices.
Thursday, May 8 – BoE Super Thursday
12:00 (GBP) – BoE Rate Decision, Minutes & Monetary Policy Report
A full BoE release package, including the MPC vote breakdown. Pound pairs could see sharp reactions based on any shift in tone.
12:30 (GBP) – Governor Bailey Speech
Bailey’s tone will be key for follow-through. Any hints at future cuts or prolonged holding could reprice expectations rapidly.
Friday, May 9
09:40 (GBP) – Another speech from Governor Bailey
Traders should stay alert, two Bailey speeches in two days could indicate active management of market expectations.
13:30 (CAD) – Net Change in Employment & Unemployment Rate (Apr)
Canada’s labour market takes the spotlight to finish the week. Expect volatility in CAD pairs, especially if results diverge from forecasts.
Saturday, May 10
02:30 (CNY) – China CPI (YoY, Apr)
Weekend data from China will set the tone for early Monday open. Inflation dynamics here remain crucial for broader sentiment across APAC.
Summary:
With central banks back in focus and fresh labour/inflation data from the US, UK, Canada, and China, this week is packed with potential landmines. Fed and BoE meetings are likely to drive the lion’s share of volatility, while traders should stay nimble and risk-aware heading into the weekend.
Make sure you’ve checked your economic calendar and adjusted your risk settings. This week is not one to trade blindly.