Economic Calendar Summary - April 29, 2026
Key Events to Watch
On April 29, 2026, significant economic events are scheduled that could impact market movements:
- Federal Reserve Interest Rate Decision: Scheduled for 8:00 p.m., the Fed is expected to maintain current interest rates. The subsequent press conference at 8:30 p.m. with Chairman Jerome Powell may provide insights into future monetary policy, especially in light of ongoing energy inflation.
- Bank of Canada Interest Rate Decision: Set for 3:45 p.m., with expectations of unchanged rates. The press conference at 4:30 p.m. will also be closely monitored for policy direction.
- U.S. Economic Data Releases: At 2:30 p.m., reports on durable goods orders, building permits, and housing starts will be released, offering a glimpse into the health of the U.S. real economy. Additionally, the EIA's official data on crude oil inventories will be compared against the previous day's API report.
- European Inflation Data: Germany's Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) will be released, shedding light on the impact of the energy crisis on consumer prices in the eurozone. This data could influence the European Central Bank's (ECB) policy stance.
Earnings Reports
April 29 marks a pivotal moment in the earnings season, with major tech companies set to report their quarterly results after market close:
- Microsoft
- Meta Platforms
- Alphabet
- Amazon
These companies hold significant weight in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq indices, and their earnings could dictate market trends in the upcoming weeks. Investors are looking for not only earnings that exceed forecasts but also tangible evidence of advancements in AI monetization, cloud growth, and sustained profitability despite rising costs.
Market Sentiment
Currently, markets are exhibiting a tendency to buy on dips, driven by hopes for geopolitical concessions. However, the absence of new catalysts, coupled with oil prices exceeding $100 and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, poses a potential risk to the continuation of the market rally.