Economic Calendar Summary - July 31, 2026

Market Overview

Global financial markets are experiencing a positive shift in sentiment, with a notable increase in risk appetite. This change follows significant gains on Wall Street and a robust rebound in Asian equity markets, driven by optimistic forecasts and strong performance in the technology and semiconductor sectors. However, investors remain cautious due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Oil Market Insights

Oil prices are on track for a strong monthly close, with market participants closely monitoring developments in the Strait of Hormuz. Investors are also evaluating the Federal Reserve's recent decision to maintain interest rates. Key focus for the day includes preliminary Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data from the euro area, as well as earnings reports from major oil companies such as ExxonMobil and Chevron.

Key Economic Releases from Asia

• Japan - Industrial Production (June): Declined by 1.8% month-on-month, worse than the expected 1.2% decline.
• Japan - Retail Sales (June): Increased by 1.7% year-on-year, below the forecast of 2.1%.
• China - NBS Manufacturing PMI (July): Recorded at 49.4, slightly above expectations of 49.3.
• China - NBS Non-Manufacturing PMI (July): Came in at 50.2, down from 50.5 in the previous month.
• Australia - Retail Sales (June): Increased by 0.5% month-on-month, surpassing the 0.2% consensus forecast.

Macroeconomic Calendar Highlights

Key economic data releases scheduled for today include:

• Switzerland - Retail Sales (June): Consensus 3.1%
• France - Preliminary CPI Inflation (July): Consensus 1.8%
• Germany - Unemployment Rate (July): Consensus 6.3%
• Euro Area - Preliminary HICP Inflation (July): Consensus 2.9%
• Canada - Monthly GDP (May): Consensus 0.2%
• United States - Chicago PMI (July): Consensus 56.7

Corporate Earnings to Watch

Before the market opens, key earnings reports are expected from:

• Exxon Mobil Corporation
• Chevron Corporation
• AbbVie Inc.
• Colgate-Palmolive Company
• Enbridge Inc.
• NatWest Group plc
• Engie S.A.

Markets to Monitor

Investors should keep an eye on the following markets:

• EUR/USD: Due to significant macroeconomic releases from the euro area.
• Crude Oil (WTI/Brent): Influenced by geopolitical tensions and earnings from major oil companies.
• Technology Sector / US Equity Indices: As investors assess market direction post-earnings from major tech firms.