Last week was mainly characterised by earnings results from JSE listed companies and they were fairly mixed. It seems we do have another busy week ahead in terms of earnings as well as a couple of important economic data releases globally. On the political front there are rumours of a possible cabinet reshuffle by President Cyril Ramaphosa which could result in a leaner cabinet structure. US markets continue to be the focus of many market participants as there are conflicting views on whether we have seen the bottom of the most recent sell-off. The one guarantee is that there will be no shortage of action and potential trades. I have highlighted a few events that traders need to look out for this week.

• There will be some action on Tuesday from an economic data perspective. We expect CPI data for Japan, Germany and Spain. We are also expecting Durable Goods Orders, Trade Balance and Consumer Confidence data from the USA, however the biggest focus will be on Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s first testimony since his appointment. In terms of local earnings we are expecting results from AECI, Attacq and WBHO.

• Japanese Industrial Production and Retail Sales data kicks off Wednesday for the financial markets and then shortly afterwards we expect China to release Manufacturing PMI and Non-Manufacturing PMI data. From the Eurozone we expect CPI numbers for France, Italy as well as the Eurozone itself. The USA is expected to release its estimate of GDP along with Pending Home Sales, Chicago PMI and Crude Oil Inventories. Locally we are expecting StatsSA to release PPI data and addition to that we also expect Trade Balance numbers for January. In terms of earnings results we expect Growthpoint Properties and Murray & Roberts to release their results.

• China is expected to release the Caixin Manufacturing PMI data whilst we also expect Manufacturing PMI data from Japan as well as most of the countries in the Eurozone and the USA. From the USA we are also expecting the Initial Jobless Claims and Personal Spending data. In terms of earnings results we are expecting results from Barclays Africa, Ascendis Health, Impala Platinum and Santam. We are also expecting Naamsa Vehicle Sales data locally.

• On Friday we are expecting earnings results for Mondi Ltd, Mondi PLC, Nedbank and Liberty Holdings. In terms of economic data Japan is expected to release Household Spending and Unemployment Rate data, whilst Germany is expected to release Retail Sales numbers. In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Theresa May is expected to make a speech that morning, and we also expect Construction PMI data out of the same country.

Another jam packed week ahead which should provide for some interesting opportunities. Remember to exercise the necessary risk management procedures when entering positions and a keep a special lookout on the US 10-year Treasury yields.

We will be keeping tabs on the events in the markets. Check out our blog for market updates, insights from our GT247.com team, and our independent analysts. Not sure about a trade? Call the GT247.com Trading Desk on 087 940 6102, and bounce your idea off one of our dedicated traders.

Until next week, we wish you profitable trading!