Economic Calendar and Market Insights - February 26, 2026

Overview

The economic landscape on February 26, 2026, is characterized by a focus on the ongoing US-Iran nuclear talks in Geneva, which are perceived as a critical juncture to prevent further escalation of tensions. The market is expected to remain relatively calm during the European session, with no major macroeconomic data releases scheduled.

Key Economic Events

During the day, several important economic indicators and speeches are anticipated:

• 09:30 GMT+1: Speech by ECB President Christine Lagarde (no forecast available)
• 11:00 GMT+1: Various economic indicators from the Eurozone, including:
  • Consumer Confidence (February): Forecast -12.2, Previous -12.2
  • Economic Sentiment Indicator (February): Forecast 99.4, Previous 99.8
  • Business Climate (February): Forecast 7.2, Previous 7.5
  • Sentiment in the Services Sector (February): Forecast -6.8, Previous -6.1
• 11:20 GMT+1: Speech by Lombardelli from the Bank of England (no forecast available)
• 14:30 GMT+1: US Jobless Claims data:
  • Number of New Jobless Claims (13 February): Forecast 1.869 million, Previous 1.860 million
  • Four-week Average of New Jobless Claims (20 February): Forecast 219,000, Previous 219,000
  • Number of New Jobless Claims (20 February): Forecast 216,000, Previous 206,000
• 16:00 GMT+1: US Current Account (Q4): Forecast -9.68 billion, Previous -7.70 billion
• 16:30 GMT+1: EIA Natural Gas Inventory Change (20 February): Forecast -144 billion, Previous -144 billion
• 17:00 GMT+1: Kansas Fed Manufacturing Activity (February): Forecast -2, Previous -2

Recent Economic Developments

On February 25, 2026, it was reported that German GfK consumer sentiment has worsened, while GDP figures have aligned with expectations. Additionally, on February 24, the EU suspended a significant trade deal, leading to a 2% increase in gold prices.