Weekly Market Analysis: 13th to 17th of February 2017


The Federal Reserve could rival the White House as a source of volatility in the week ahead, as U.S. central bank chief Janet Yellen testifies before Senate and House committees on the economy and monetary policy.

Investors will also keep an eye out on a few U.S. economic reports, with Wednesday’s inflation and retail sales data in the spotlight, for further clues on the timing of the next Fed rate hike.

Meanwhile, in the U.K., market participants will be looking ahead to reports on consumer prices, employment and retail sales for further indications on the continued effect that the Brexit decision is having on the economy.

Elsewhere, Germany is to publish preliminary data on fourth-quarter economic growth on Tuesday for further hints on the strength of the euro zone’s economy.

Preliminary data on Japanese fourth-quarter growth will also be in focus, amid concerns over recent yen strength and its implication on economic growth prospects.