Looking Ahead: Week of September 10 through 14

The consumer sector has shown recent improvement—other than for employment. The week starts off and ends with consumer updates on consumer credit and with Friday’s retail sales and consumer sentiment. Europe is largely in recession and Asia is slowing, so Tuesday’s international trade report will provide news on the latest export numbers which are key to manufacturers. Higher food and energy costs have been threatening inflation numbers and this week’s PPI and CPI reports will provide updates. Finally, the Fed meets a day later than usual and traders will be closely anticipating some form of additional monetary easing when the Fed releases its statement just after noon on Thursday. Chairman Bernanke will be explaining the forecasts and any policy move at 2:15 p.m. ET Thursday.