Key Economic Events and Corporate Reports for the Week of 26 January to 1 February 2026: US Federal Reserve Meeting, Eurozone GDP, China PMI, and Reports from Apple, Microsoft, Tesla, ExxonMobil, and Other Major Companies. An Analytical Overview for Investors.
A new week brings a packed calendar of macroeconomic events and corporate reporting for investors worldwide. The spotlight is on the US Federal Reserve meeting, several important statistical indicators (GDP, PMI, inflation) across different regions, and the peak of the quarterly reporting season for leading companies from the S&P 500, Euro Stoxx 50, Nikkei 225, and Moscow Exchange. Particular attention is drawn to the potential US government shutdown by week’s end, preparations for the celebration of the Chinese New Year in mid-February, and the start of a major airshow in India. Below is a detailed day-by-day overview of what investors should keep an eye on.
Monday, 26 January
Macroeconomics: The week begins relatively calmly. In Europe, the Ifo business climate index for Germany for January is released – the first significant indicator of the year for the EU’s largest economy. An improvement in German business sentiment may support the euro and European stocks, whereas weak data could heighten concerns regarding slowing growth. In the US, data on durable goods orders for December is published. The dynamics of these orders will reflect the state of the industrial sector ahead of the Fed’s decision: an increase in orders signals business confidence and strengthens expectations for a continued hawkish stance from the Fed, while a decline indicates caution among companies. Trading in Asia is subdued due to Australia’s public holiday (Australia Day), resulting in reduced volumes in Asian markets. In general, Monday sets the tone: there are few internal drivers, and global markets are orienting themselves towards external factors and expectations of larger events midweek.
Corporate Reports: The earnings season is just gaining momentum. In the US, several industrial and financial companies will release their results before market opening, including some steel manufacturers and insurance firms. Reports from Steel Dynamics and Nucor are anticipated, allowing investors to assess margins and demand in the metallurgy sector, alongside results from insurer W. R. Berkley focusing on underwriting profitability. In Europe, there are few major releases on Monday, but Ryanair, a leading low-cost airline in Europe, stands out. Ryanair’s quarterly financial results will indicate passenger flow dynamics and the impact of fuel prices; a strong report could support stocks in the tourism and aviation sectors in the region. On the Russian market (MOEX index), Monday is quiet – major Russian companies typically do not release annual results yet (expected in February-March), hence investors are focused on external signals, oil prices, and the ruble exchange rate.
Tuesday, 27 January
Macroeconomics: On Tuesday, the focus shifts to the US and Asia. American investors will monitor the Consumer Confidence Index from the Conference Board for January – an important leading indicator of domestic demand. A moderate decline in consumer sentiment is expected following the holiday season; unexpectedly strong figures could support the market, while weak numbers may amplify discussions about a slowing US economy. Overall, markets begin to price in expectations ahead of the Fed meeting the following day, which may induce cautious sentiments and minor volatility. In China, the work week is proceeding as usual (celebrations for the Chinese New Year will not start until February), but investors are assessing preliminary signals of demand ahead of the holidays. India will release statistics on industrial production and budget metrics, which are critical for evaluating the prospects of the emerging market, although the global impact of these data is limited.
Corporate Reports: Tuesday is rich in reports from large companies, particularly in the US. Prior to the opening of the American market, quarterly results from several Dow Jones giants will be published: Boeing will report financial outcomes after resuming aircraft deliveries (investors will be looking for comments on production rates and new orders), and automotive manufacturer General Motors will present its sales and profit numbers for the fourth quarter. Simultaneously, leading logistics operator UPS (a barometer for business activity and e-commerce) and health insurer UnitedHealth Group will release their reports. In Europe, attention will focus on the annual results of LVMH – the world’s largest luxury conglomerate. The LVMH report (expected revenue growth for 2025) will serve as an indicator of consumer demand in the premium segment and is particularly important for the European equity market. In total, this day sets a global backdrop: investors are weighing the strengths and weaknesses of different economic sectors ahead of key events on Wednesday.
Wednesday, 28 January
Macroeconomics: Wednesday represents the central day of the week in terms of central bank policies. The two-day Federal Reserve (FOMC) meeting concludes, and the decision on US interest rates will be announced in the evening. The Fed is expected to maintain the rate, however, the rhetoric in the statement and at the press conference may significantly influence market sentiments worldwide. Investors will be on the lookout for hints regarding the future course of monetary policy, considering the slowdown in inflation in the US in recent months. Almost simultaneously, the Bank of Canada will convene – a rate hold is also forecasted there, and the regulator's commentary on economic risks will be important. In the evening, developing markets will also be in focus: the Brazilian central bank (Copom) will conduct a late-night rate meeting on Wednesday, where a decision regarding the continuation of the current rate-cutting cycle from 15% may be made. Furthermore, the South African Reserve Bank will commence a two-day meeting (results will be announced the following day). In Asia, there are no significant releases, but attention is directed towards Japan – investors are evaluating fresh inflation data (Japan's core inflation slowed to approximately 2.4% YoY in December) and anticipating the Bank of Japan's response following a recent meeting. Moreover, the Wings India 2026 airshow commences in India (28-31 January, Hyderabad), where leading aircraft manufacturers and airlines are gathered: this industry event may yield news of major contracts and collaborations that could impact aerospace sector stocks.
Corporate Reports: Midweek brings the most awaited batch of corporate reports, especially from the high-tech sector. After the US market closes on 28 January, three mega-corporations from the technology sector will release their results for the fourth quarter of 2025: Microsoft, Tesla, and Meta (Facebook). Microsoft’s report (published in the evening) will reveal trends in cloud services and AI products – sustained profitability growth in this business may bolster the entire tech-heavy Nasdaq. Tesla will report on electric vehicle deliveries and profitability – investors will watch how price decreases on certain models have affected margins. Meta is set to present results in online advertising and user engagement, which will serve as a check for the social media market amid competition. Additionally, several other S&P 500 companies’ reports are expected on Wednesday evening: for instance, chip equipment manufacturer Lam Research and payment system Mastercard. Notably, Mastercard will publish its fourth-quarter results earlier that day before the market opens, and transaction volume forecasts will be critical for assessing consumer activity. From the traditional sector, Boeing’s report is also noteworthy (if it has not been released earlier in the morning) – comments on new orders and the restoration of supply chains are essential for the industry. In Europe, the Dutch company ASML – a leading semiconductor equipment manufacturer – will release results that morning: ASML's results will provide insight into the global chipmaker cycle. Consequently, Wednesday is poised to become a day of high volatility: the combination of central bank decisions and tech giants’ reports may lead to significant movements in indices and currency rates.
Thursday, 29 January
Macroeconomics: On Thursday, attention shifts to other regions and data. In the first half of the day, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is expected to announce its interest rate decision: the market anticipates a rate hold at current levels (considering inflation near 3% and previous cuts), however, the regulator’s comments on the prospects of South Africa’s economy may impact the rand's exchange rate and risk appetite in emerging markets. In Europe, there are no significant regulatory decisions scheduled for the day (the ECB will hold its meeting next week), but some data may be released – such as preliminary inflation estimates for certain Eurozone countries or consumer confidence indicators. Investors are also continuing to assess the outcomes of the Fed meeting: the second day after the policy announcement is often characterised by reevaluation and market correction. In the US, traditional Thursday reports on initial jobless claims will be released – this operational labour market indicator will be interesting in the context of the Fed's rhetoric regarding the “cooling” economy. Additionally, by the end of the month, the US Treasury may announce updated plans for government debt issuance, thus influencing bond yields. Also worth noting is the political backdrop: with just one day left before the deadline for US government funding, news from Congress regarding budget approval or another temporary agreement (or the lack thereof) may become a significant factor for the markets.
Corporate Reports: On 29 January, investors are poised for a new wave of significant corporate releases on both sides of the Atlantic. The highlight of the day will be the financial results from Apple – the world’s most valuable company will report after the US market closes. This marks the first quarter of Apple’s 2026 financial year, including the holiday season, therefore record revenue is anticipated: particularly intriguing are the sales figures for new iPhone models and dynamics in the services business. Any surprises from Apple could significantly influence the Nasdaq and the entire tech sector. Simultaneously, Visa – the largest payment system and an indicator of global consumer spending – will present its quarterly results in the evening. Analysts expect growth in electronic payment volume; investors will be watching Visa’s forecasts for 2026 under current macro conditions. Prior to market open on Thursday, Visa’s competitor – Mastercard – will report its figures (as mentioned, those results may come early in the morning): together, the reports from these two payment giants will provide a comprehensive picture of trends in cashless payments and tourism. In Europe, at the beginning of Thursday, technology conglomerate SAP (Germany) will release its financial results for 2025 – investors will assess the growth of SAP's cloud services and the forecast for the new year, which is important for the European tech sector. Additionally, Nokia will publish its results in the morning: the report from the Finnish company will show the demand for 5G telecom equipment, particularly in the context of intense competition in the global telecommunications market. In the Russian market, no major financial releases are expected on Thursday, although particular events in the corporate calendar will take place: for example, the company "All Tools" will disclose its production results for 2025, while the developer "Samolyot" will hold an Investor Day, where it may provide forecasts for the real estate market. Thus, investors are poised to receive important orientations from leaders in the tech and financial sectors on Thursday, aiding in the recalibration of strategies before the week’s end.
Friday, 30 January
Macroeconomics: The end of the work week will be marked by the publication of key statistical data, particularly in Europe and Asia. In the Eurozone, the preliminary estimate of GDP for Q4 2025 will be released on Friday. Economists forecast weak growth or stagnation in the Eurozone economy at year-end – results are expected to be close to 0% quarter-on-quarter amid high ECB rates and energy uncertainties. Actual GDP figures for the EU will determine sentiments: better-than-expected growth will boost the euro and European stocks, while negative dynamics will reinforce discussions about a possible softening of ECB policy later in 2026. Individual data from leading Eurozone countries (Germany, France), which often release results on the same day, will also be of interest: particular focus will be on Germany, where an industrial downturn may have slowed growth. In Asia, early on Friday, inflation data from Tokyo for January will be released – the consumer price index in Tokyo serves as a leading indicator for all of Japan. Further deceleration of annual inflation to approximately 2% is anticipated, which might solidify perceptions of the temporary nature of price spikes in Japan and alleviate pressure on the Bank of Japan regarding policy tightening. In the US, macro statistics may be limited due to recent budget disputes: the publication of the US GDP report for Q4 was originally scheduled for 30 January but was dependent on funding for statistical agencies. If the US government is not shut down by then, data on personal income and expenditures for December (including PCE inflation) could be released – investors will assess the dynamics of consumer expenditure at year-end. Finally, political intrigue reaches its peak: the temporary budget for the US expires on 30 January. If Congress does not approve funding, there is a risk of a partial government shutdown commencing on 31 January. Markets are highly sensitive to this issue – throughout Friday, any news regarding the progression of budget negotiations (or their breakdown) may cause noticeable fluctuations in the dollar, treasury bonds, and the broader equity market.
Corporate Reports: Friday concludes the week with a powerful crescendo through reports from major oil and gas companies and other corporations. Before the market opens in the US on 30 January, quarterly results from two oil supermajors – ExxonMobil and Chevron – will be released. These reports are vital not only for the companies’ shareholders but also for the entire energy sector and raw materials markets: high oil prices at the end of 2025 are expected to enable both corporations to demonstrate strong profits and cash flows. Investors are also looking for updates on stock buyback programmes and investment plans in extraction for 2026. Concurrently, financial conglomerate American Express (AXP) will present its outcomes – this Dow Jones issuer’s report will reflect trends in premium consumer spending and credit card debt. Among Friday’s morning reports is telecommunications giant Verizon, which will disclose metrics on 5G subscriber growth and dividend forecasts; any surprises here may affect the entire communication sector. In the European market, the end of the week is relatively quiet in terms of new reports (most EU companies have either reported in previous days or are preparing for February). However, in the Russian market, essential operational data may emerge on Friday: for instance, Russian oil companies traditionally provide information on production and exports for the preceding quarter by the end of the month, which could influence oil and gas stock prices in Russia. After markets close on Friday, no substantial reports are expected – investors will summarise a busy week and prepare for new data the following week.
Weekend 31 January – 1 February
Macroeconomics and Events: During the weekend, markets take a pause, but attention shifts to Asia. On Saturday, 31 January, China will publish the official Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for the manufacturing sector for January. This release occurs even on the weekend as it is a key indicator for the world’s second-largest economy. A PMI reading around the neutral level of 50 is expected – maintaining levels close to this mark would confirm the stabilization of industrial growth in China. An improvement in PMI above 50 would serve as a positive signal, indicating accelerated activity ahead of the Spring Festival, while a decline below 50 would heighten concerns about weak domestic demand. On Sunday, 1 February, no significant economic events are scheduled. Nevertheless, investors will monitor the situation in Washington: if the budget crisis in the US is not resolved by Saturday, a partial federal government shutdown will commence on Sunday – markets will open the following week factoring this in. Moreover, a series of public holidays in Asia is approaching – next week marks February’s arrival, and market participants will consider the upcoming Chinese New Year (with celebrations peaking on 17 February) and the related extended breaks on Asian exchanges.
Conclusion: Key Considerations for Investors
The week of 26 January to 1 February 2026 promises to be eventful, requiring heightened attention from investors towards the news cycle. **Firstly**, the outcome of the US Federal Reserve meeting and the accompanying commentary will set the direction for global markets – even without a rate change, the tone of statements regarding the continued fight against inflation will be significant. **Secondly**, the series of macro reports (Eurozone GDP, China PMI, Japan inflation, US consumer confidence) will calibrate forecasts regarding global growth: improved indicators will foster risk appetite, while weak data will intensify demand for safe-haven instruments (bonds, gold). **Thirdly**, the peak of the corporate reporting season continues: results from giants such as Microsoft, Apple, Tesla, Meta, Visa, ExxonMobil, and others may lead to capital reallocations between sectors. For investors, it is crucial not only to monitor earnings surpassing or falling short of forecasts but also to read management guidance for 2026 – many companies share their expectations for the entire year, which will impact their stock valuations. **Finally**, geopolitical and political factors cannot be overlooked: the potential US government shutdown at week’s end poses a risk to credit ratings and trust in the dollar, as well as an indicator of the ability of American legislators to negotiate. On the global stage, signs of stabilisation (such as progress in peace talks regarding conflicts) or, conversely, new hotbeds of tension will affect energy prices and currencies of emerging markets. With the upcoming Chinese New Year and the associated breaks in the operations of Asian exchanges, investors worldwide should timely rebalance their portfolios. In summary, the week promises volatility but also presents opportunities: astute analysis of economic trends and corporate reports will assist in making informed investment decisions.
