Dollar strengthens as markets await key inflation data, Bitcoin nears 18-month high By Investing.com

Amidst a mixed backdrop of cautious optimism and apprehension, global markets are gearing up for a pivotal week with a keen eye on upcoming inflation data that could influence central bank policies. As U.S. equity futures pointed to a softer opening on Wall Street today, investors are holding their breath for consumer price figures that may determine the Federal Reserve’s interest rate trajectory.

In Europe, stock markets opened on an upbeat note Today, with the rising by 0.37% and the gaining 0.38%. also saw a modest increase of 0.34%. This positive sentiment was echoed in the healthcare sector, which helped push the up by 0.53%.

The buoyancy in European stocks contrasted with the dip in U.S. equity futures, as and contracts edged lower despite Boeing (NYSE:)’s shares soaring by 4% due to a lucrative $52 billion deal with Emirates. The anticipation of Tuesday’s inflation data has kept traders on edge, with predictions suggesting a drop in inflation to a yearly rate of 3.3%. This speculation has led to a slight decline in ten-year Treasury yields by two basis points to 4.63%.

Market analysts are divided over the Federal Reserve’s next move. While Morgan Stanley anticipates deep rate cuts starting from June next year, Goldman Sachs forecasts the first cut around the end of 2024, signaling differing expectations on the pace of economic recovery and monetary easing.

In currency markets, the dollar showed strength as it reached a new peak for the year against the yen, while the pound gained ground ahead of UK inflation figures. The dismissal of UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman appeared to leave no discernible imprint on market dynamics.

Cryptocurrency continues to be a highlight in financial news, with nearing its 18-month high at approximately $37,000, even as Ether experienced a minor drop to $2,054.84. The digital currency’s surge adds another layer of complexity to the investment landscape.

Looking ahead, investors are bracing for a series of key events that could sway markets further: speeches from European Central Bank (ECB) Vice President Luis de Guindos and President Christine Lagarde, insights from U.S. Fed Presidents, OPEC’s market report, and various data releases including UK jobless claims, China retail sales, UK and US CPI figures, US retail sales and producer price index (PPI), China new home prices, and US initial jobless claims.

Oil prices have stabilized somewhat after recent declines, with futures hovering near $81 per barrel following a three-week drop of 12%. This stabilization comes amidst concerns about demand and geopolitical risks that have been influencing market sentiment.

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