In the US, the main focus will be the minutes of the October Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting. Markets will get a view of the degree of consumer optimism thanks to the ABC consumer confidence. Market participants will get hold of the Producer and Consumer Price Index for October. Markets will also keep track of developments in both the housing and labour market. Industrial production figures for October and the Philadelphia Fed index, a measure of regional manufacturing growth, are due this week. The leading indicators which seek to measure US economic activity are also out.

Data release on the other side of the Atlantic is rather thin this week. The eurozone composite (manufacturing and services) Purchasing Manager Index (PMI) is likely to decline further against the backdrop of weakening in demand. Meanwhile, markets will take a view on the construction sector through the release of the construction output survey for September. The eurozone trade balance figure is expected this week.

In the UK, the focus will be on the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) minutes which should reveal the voting pattern behind the decision to lower interest rates. Retail sales figures are also due. A view on the pricing patterns in the UK will be taken by the release of the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) for October. The CBI November industrial trends survey, which provides a view on past and expected trends in output, exports, prices and business confidence, is out this week. British public finances and the M4 Money Supply will also be released.

This article has been prepared by Bank of Valletta plc, which is licensed to conduct investment services business by the MFSA, for your general information only. This information is not a solicitation or offer by the bank to acquire or sell securities, nor does it constitute any form of advice by the bank. Appropriate advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance and the value of your investments may fall or rise.

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