4 market events this week that could move global markets

Which market events this week are most likely to move prices? From central bank meetings to Big Tech earnings and key economic data, here's what traders should watch as volatility builds across global markets.

A busy week lies ahead for financial markets, with central bank meetings, corporate earnings, economic data and geopolitical developments all competing for investors' attention. As oil prices climb above 90 USD per barrel, traders are reassessing the outlook for inflation, interest rates and market volatility.

Every tool you need, all in one place

Chart, execute, and manage your funds all on one user-friendly screen.

Try Exness Terminal

Central banks take centre stage

The Federal Reserve, Bank of Japan, and Bank of England will all announce monetary policy decisions in the coming days. Although the Fed is expected to keep interest rates unchanged, the recent surge in energy prices has complicated the inflation outlook, prompting markets to scale back expectations for future rate cuts. In Japan, policymakers continue to grapple with a historically weak yen, while the Bank of England faces the challenge of balancing persistent inflation against slowing economic activity.

Big tech earnings set to test markets

Big Tech earnings season is another major catalyst, with several of the world's largest technology companies due to report quarterly results, alongside nearly half of the companies in Europe's STOXX 600 index. Strong or disappointing earnings could trigger significant moves in equity markets, while company guidance may provide valuable insight into how businesses are coping with higher financing costs and elevated energy prices.

Economic data could drive volatility

Economic releases will also remain in focus. Inflation data from Tokyo and purchasing managers' index (PMI) surveys across the eurozone are expected to offer fresh clues about price pressures and economic momentum. These reports could influence expectations for future central bank decisions and add to market volatility across currencies, indices and bonds.

Geopolitical risks keep markets on edge

Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions continue to underpin the market outlook, with concerns over oil shipping disruptions pushing crude oil above the 90 USD per barrel mark, increasing fears that energy costs could keep inflation elevated. If supply risks persist, commodities, inflation expectations and interest-rate-sensitive assets are likely to remain highly reactive.

For traders, the combination of central bank decisions, earnings reports, economic indicators and geopolitical developments creates an environment in which volatility may increase across multiple asset classes. Monitoring these key events will be essential as markets look for direction in the week ahead.

Stay in control of your exposure

Watch up to 8 charts on one screen and manage your risk at a glance.

Try Exness Terminal

Final thoughts

As I look ahead to the week, I'll be paying close attention to these market events rather than focusing on a single headline. When central bank meetings, corporate earnings, economic data, and geopolitical developments all converge, market sentiment can shift quickly, making it essential to stay informed, remain disciplined, and let the data—not emotions—guide trading decisions.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered trading or investment advice. Always conduct your own research and assess your risk before making any trading decisions.