Publication date: April 24, 2026
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Outlook:
The United States and the European Union publish important interest rate and inflation decisions in the coming week, combined with a busy period of corporate earnings figures.
In this weekend Money Care report, we provide an overview of the macro-economic developments that may stir financial markets.
Review of the past week
Financial markets were hardly driven by macroeconomic factors during the past week. Geopolitical developments in the Middle East, on the other hand, caused increased volatility. On balance, however, there were no major shifts. The Nasdaq and Bitcoin were exceptions, closing the week markedly higher.
Upcoming week:
On Wednesday, April 29 at 8 p.m., the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) will announce its interest rate decision. Key short-term interest rates are expected to remain unchanged within the range of 3.50% to 3.75%. The Federal Reserve is currently taking a wait-and-see approach and first wants more clarity on inflation trends and the economic impact of geopolitical tensions.
A rate hike in 2026 remains possible if inflation remains stubbornly high in the United States. An interest rate cut is only obvious if the labor market weakens demonstrably.
Chairman Jerome Powell's comments at the press conference are expected to outweigh the decision itself. In particular, signals about future interest rate policy will determine market sentiment.
On Thursday, April 30 at 2:30 p.m., the core PCE price index for March will be released. This inflation measure is considered an important indicator of Federal Reserve policy. In February, this index was 3.0% annualized.
In the European Union, the European Central Bank (ECB) will announce its interest rate decision at 2:15 p.m. on Thursday, April 30. This decision follows inflation publications from both the euro zone and Germany.
The ECB is expected to leave interest rates unchanged. Since March 19, 2026, interest rates have stood at 2.00% for the deposit rate, 2.15% for the main refinancing rate and 2.40% for the marginal lending facility. Despite the rise in inflation from 1.9% in February to 2.6% in March, the ECB remains cautious for now. Medium-term inflation expectations are considered sufficiently stable. Among analysts, expectations of a possible interest rate hike in June are increasing.
In addition, the week is dominated by the publication of quarterly figures by major listed companies. In particular, the results of Microsoft and Qualcomm on Tuesday after-hours and Amazon and Apple on Wednesday after-hours, may have a significant impact on market sentiment.
The stock market calendar week 18
The following is an overview of the most important macro-economic publications for the coming week. These figures may cause additional volatility in financial markets.
Monday, April 27, 2026:
No major macro-economic publications.
Tuesday, April 28, 2026:
No major macro-economic publications.
Wednesday, April 29, 2026:
Europe:
14:00 Consumer price index Germany (April)
United States:
Thursday, April 30, 2026:
Europe:
United States:
Friday, May 1, 2026:
Europe:
United States:
Please note that publication dates and times may change. Please consult the official communication channels of the relevant institutions and governments for the most up-to-date information.
Disclaimer: Investing involvesrisks. Our analysts are not financial advisors. Always consult an advisor when making financial decisions. The information and tips provided on this website are based on our analysts' own insights and experiences. They are therefore for educational purposes only.