Investor attention this week centres on US inflation, the ECB's rate decision, and an assessment of global economic momentum. Last Friday's jobs report reaffirmed labour market resilience, with 172,000 positions added against a forecast of 85,000, pushing back expectations of a near-term Fed rate cut. In this article we have prepared an analysis of the week's key events: from Tuesday's China trade balance to Friday's UK GDP, with Wednesday's CPI release at the centre of it all, a reading that will define the direction for the dollar and equity markets. Inside, you'll find technical analysis, key price levels and the latest market sentiment across major assets.

This week could prove pivotal for Fed rate expectations and broader risk sentiment. The main event is Wednesday's US CPI, the Federal Reserve's primary gauge of consumer price pressure. A reading above expectations would reinforce the case for rates staying higher for longer, while softer data would revive rate-cut hopes and provide support for equities.

Thursday's ECB rate decision adds a second major central bank event to the schedule. Markets will watch Christine Lagarde's press conference closely for signals on the pace of rate changes into year-end. China's trade balance on Tuesday and UK GDP on Friday round out a data-heavy week, with both capable of driving moves in commodity currencies and sterling.

Key events of the week

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Conclusion

The week revolves around inflation signals and global growth assessment. The CPI report on Wednesday sets the tone for Fed rate expectations, while the ECB decision and data from China and the UK round out the picture of major economies' conditions.

The week's key factor is inflation persistence in the US. Sustained price pressure limits room for Fed easing and supports the dollar, while slowing price growth could restore risk appetite for equities.