Reports to Watch

The week is full of key economic data from a variety of sectors.

• Economic data is on the slow side this week beginning on Thursday with weekly Initial Jobless Claims and the Producer Price Index.
• On Friday, the Consumer Price Index, Retail Sales and Consumer Sentiment Index will be delivered.

X Factor

Consumer spending makes up about two-thirds of the U.S. economy and is a big driver of economic growth. In February and March, Retail Sales declined back-to-back for the worst two-month stretch in two years. This weighed on economic growth in the first quarter.

In order for the U.S. economy to hit on all cylinders, consumers must open their wallets and spend. Weak February sales were due in part to delays in tax refunds while harsh weather in March held consumer spending back.

Warmer weather in April should have helped to boost sales. If not, economic growth will most likely remain weak.

For more detailed information and insight, view the Economic Calendar, the Daily Market Update and Guidance, and our exclusive Market News. And don’t forget, you can easily download the Economic Calendar to your Outlook Calendar to make sure you don’t miss important economic releases. Just click here to read instructions for downloading to Outlook