Trump’s Speech, Tariffs, Jobs Data, and Big Earnings Set to Shake Markets

Traders Brace for Key Economic Reports and Earnings This Week

Markets are set for a high-impact week with a mix of major economic data releases, Federal Reserve commentary, and earnings from key companies. Investors will closely monitor President Trump’s address to Congress, fresh labor market data, and corporate earnings from major retailers and tech firms.

Trump’s Address and New Tariffs in Focus

President Donald Trump will address a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, where he may outline policy priorities, including trade measures. His administration’s decision to impose new tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, alongside a doubling of existing tariffs on Chinese imports, could have implications for inflation and global trade. Traders will watch for market reactions, particularly in equities and commodities sensitive to trade policy.

Jobs Report and Fed Commentary Could Drive Markets

Friday’s February jobs report is expected to be a key market mover, following last month’s lower-than-expected job gains. Analysts project 185,000 new jobs, with the unemployment rate holding at 4%. Higher-than-expected jobless claims last week raised concerns about labor market softness, making this report even more critical for Federal Reserve policy expectations.

Ahead of the Fed’s blackout period, officials including Governor Michelle Bowman and New York Fed President John Williams are scheduled to speak. The central bank’s Beige Book, due Wednesday, will provide insights into economic conditions ahead of the March FOMC meeting. Traders will assess whether data supports the Fed’s current stance of holding rates steady.

Retail and Tech Earnings to Test Market Sentiment

Several high-profile earnings reports this week could shape market sentiment. Retailers Target, Costco, and Kroger will provide updates on consumer spending trends, which have been under pressure due to inflation concerns. Analysts expect Target to report earnings of $2.25 per share on revenue of $30.85 billion, while Costco is projected to post $4.10 per share in earnings on $68.3 billion in revenue.

In tech, Broadcom’s report on Thursday will be closely watched following Nvidia’s strong but scrutinized results. Analysts anticipate Broadcom will post $1.51 per share in earnings, driven by AI-related demand and VMware portfolio optimization.

Market Outlook: Jobs Data and Fed Signals to Dictate Trends

With fresh labor market data and Fed commentary ahead, traders will adjust positions based on rate expectations. A weaker-than-expected jobs report could fuel speculation of future rate cuts, potentially pressuring bond yields and boosting equities.

Meanwhile, earnings from key retailers and chipmakers will provide insight into consumer strength and AI-driven demand. Markets will likely remain volatile as traders digest economic data and policy signals throughout the week.

More Information in our Economic Calendar.