The upcoming week is packed with developments that could shape the markets and set the tone for 2025. Whether you’re managing your portfolio, trading, or just starting your investment journey, here’s what you need to know:

📅 Monday, Dec 16

• Flash PMI Data: Watch the Flash Manufacturing and Services PMI data. These reports give a peek into the health of businesses across the U.S., an early indicator of economic momentum.  

📅 Tuesday, Dec 17

• Retail Sales Data: Core Retail Sales and Retail Sales data are in focus today, offering insights into consumer spending trends. As we move through the festive season, these numbers could reveal whether holiday shopping met expectations or fell short.

📅 Wednesday, Dec 18

• Federal Reserve (FOMC) Meeting: Will the Fed cut rates? Market expectations are now at 96% for a rate reduction, driven by in-line CPI data and a jump in Jobless Claims last month.

📅 Thursday, Dec 19

• Q3 GDP Final Numbers and Unemployment Claims: Keep an eye on these numbers as they come in to gauge economic strength and labor market trends. They will highlight the economy’s resilience as the year comes to a close.

📅 Friday, Dec 20

• Core PCE Price Index: To end the week, the Fed’s go-to inflation gauge will give critical insight into how inflation is holding up and what it might mean for monetary policy.  
  

💼 Here are some information on a few companies sharing their financial results this week:

📅 Tuesday, Dec 17

• Heico Corporation (HEI)

Heico is expected to report a revenue of approximately $1.03 billion for Q4 2024, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 10.19%. Analysts predict an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.98, marking a substantial growth of 32.07% compared to the previous year.

📅 Wednesday, Dec 18

• Micron Technology, Inc. (MU)

Micron is set to announce its latest earnings report, with analysts anticipating revenues of around $8.71 billion, a remarkable year-over-year increase of 84.3%. The company is benefiting from strong demand for memory chips driven by AI applications, projecting earnings of $1.77 per share.

📅 Thursday, Dec 19

• FedEx Corporation (FDX)

FedEx’s upcoming earnings report is critical as it faces challenges in its Express segment while its Freight division, now contributing 30% of operating income, undergoes a strategic review. Despite these hurdles, the company shows solid financial health and analysts maintain a Buy rating.

• Nike, Inc. (NKE)

Nike is facing a challenging environment with projected revenues declining by nearly 9.7% year-over-year to $12.1 billion. Investors will be keen to hear about the company's turnaround strategies under newly reappointed CEO Elliott Hill amid softening consumer demand.

The Federal Reserve’s decisions and statements could impact the markets as we enter the new year. Keep this in mind when opening new trades or managing current ones, and look out for potential opportunities!

Have a fantastic and enjoyable week ahead! Happy trading!

– Trade and Travel Team