On a slow start to the new trading week, the Dow Jones held steady around midrange. Investors are feeling apprehensive as they await crucial inflation data. The coming week will see the release of US Producer Price Index (PPI) and Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures, which will have a significant impact on market sentiment.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average exhibited limited momentum on Monday, echoing the previous Friday’s performance. Attempts to drive a technical rally in the equity index were not successful, leading investors to adopt a cautious approach. Momentum is expected to remain subdued as investors wait for key midweek CPI inflation figures.
Tuesday will bring US PPI figures, with hopes for continued easing in structural inflation pressures. Core PPI is forecasted to decrease to 2.7% from 3.0% for the year ended in July. Wednesday’s YoY core CPI inflation is also expected to ease slightly to 3.2% from 3.3%. Market sentiment is hanging on these forecasts; if CPI comes in too high or too low, it could negatively affect equities.
On Monday, two-thirds of companies listed on the Dow Jones experienced losses while others managed minimal gains — Walmart Inc.(WMT) and Unitedhealth Group Inc.(UNH) rose over 1.5%, while Procter & Gamble Co.(PG) and Boeing Co.(BA) each fell around 2%.
The Dow Jones traded tepidly on Monday, testing minor declines as intraday price action struggles near the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA). The index currently sits about 5% below its all-time high but has gained support at its lowest point this month near39 ,0830 . Traders can expect upward movement towards challenging major price marks once more after awaiting upcoming inflation data prints.
