Key Economic Events and Corporate Reports for the Week of January 26 to February 1, 2026: US Fed Meeting, Eurozone GDP, China's PMI, and Reports from Apple, Microsoft, Tesla, ExxonMobil, and Other Major Companies. An Analytical Review for Investors.
The new week brings investors a packed calendar of macroeconomic events and corporate reports worldwide. In the spotlight are the US Federal Reserve meeting, a range of critical statistics (GDP, PMI, inflation) across various regions, and the peak of the quarterly reporting season for leading companies from the S&P 500, Euro Stoxx 50, Nikkei 225, and Moscow Exchange. Special attention is drawn to the potential US government shutdown by the end of the week, preparations for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations in mid-February, and the launch of a major airshow in India. Below is a detailed day-by-day overview of what investors should focus on.
Monday, January 26
Macroeconomics: The week starts relatively quietly. In Europe, the January Ifo business climate index for Germany is published – the first important indicator of the year for the largest economy in the EU. Improved sentiment among German businesses could support the euro and European stocks, while weak data may increase concerns about slowing growth. In the US, the December durable goods orders report is released, which will indicate the state of the industrial sector ahead of the Fed's decision: a rise in orders signals business confidence and may bolster expectations for the Fed’s further tightening stance, while a decline points to caution among companies. Asian trading is operating at a reduced pace, as Australia has a public holiday (Australia Day), leading to lower volumes in Asian markets. Overall, Monday sets the tone: with few internal drivers, global markets are looking to external factors and expectations of larger events mid-week.
Corporate Reports: The earnings season is gaining momentum. In the US, several industrial and financial companies will report before the market opens, including steel manufacturers and insurance firms. For instance, reports from Steel Dynamics and Nucor are anticipated, which investors will analyze for margins and demand in metallurgy, alongside results from insurer W. R. Berkley focused on underwriting profitability. In Europe, there are few major releases on Monday, but Ryanair—a leading European low-cost carrier—stands out. Ryanair’s quarterly financial results will show passenger traffic trends and the impact of fuel prices; a strong report will support stocks in the travel and aviation sectors across the region. On the Russian market (MOEX index), Monday is quiet as major Russian companies typically do not disclose annual results yet (expected in February-March), leading investors to focus on external signals, oil prices, and the ruble's exchange rate.
Tuesday, January 27
Macroeconomics: On Tuesday, attention shifts to the US and Asia. American investors will monitor the Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Index for January—an important leading indicator of domestic demand. A moderate weakening in consumer sentiment is expected following the holiday season; an unexpectedly strong figure could support the market, while a weak reading may amplify discussions about slowing US economic growth. Overall, markets begin to price in expectations ahead of the Fed meeting the following day, which may lead to restrained sentiments and minor volatility. In China, the work week proceeds normally (with Chinese New Year celebrations starting only in February), but investors assess preliminary demand signals ahead of the holidays. In India, statistics on industrial production and budget data will be published, important for assessing the outlook for emerging markets, although the global impact of this data is limited.
Corporate Reports: Tuesday is rich in earnings from large companies, especially in the US. Before the US market opens, quarterly results from several Dow Jones giants will be revealed: Boeing will report its financial outcomes after resuming aircraft deliveries (investors are awaiting comments on production pace and new orders), while automotive conglomerate General Motors will present its sales and profit figures for the fourth quarter. Simultaneously, reports will come from leading logistics operator UPS (a barometer of business activity and e-commerce) and health insurer UnitedHealth Group. In the second half of the day, annual results from LVMH—a global luxury conglomerate—will attract attention. The LVMH report (expected to show revenue growth for 2025) will serve as an indicator of consumer demand in the premium segment and is particularly important for the European stock market. Overall, this day sets a global backdrop: investors compare the strengths and weaknesses of different economic sectors ahead of key midweek events.
Wednesday, January 28
Macroeconomics: Wednesday is the central day of the week regarding central bank policies. The two-day FOMC meeting concludes, with a decision on the US interest rate announced in the evening. The Fed is expected to keep the rate unchanged, but the wording of the statement and the Fed chair's press conference may significantly influence market sentiments globally. Investors will be looking for hints about the future monetary policy trajectory, given the recent easing of inflation in the US. Almost simultaneously, the Bank of Canada will hold its meeting—where a rate hold is also projected—and comments from the regulator on economic risks will be critical. In the evening, emerging markets are in focus as Brazil’s central bank (Copom) holds its rate meeting late Wednesday, potentially deciding whether to continue its rate-cutting cycle from the current 15%. In South Africa, a two-day meeting of the Reserve Bank begins (with results announced the next day). In Asia, there are no significant publications, but attention is drawn to Japan—investors are evaluating recent inflation data (in December, core inflation in Japan slowed to ~2.4% y/y) and expecting the Bank of Japan's response after its recent meeting. Additionally, the Wings India 2026 airshow opens in India (January 28-31, Hyderabad), where leading aviation manufacturers and airlines converge: this industry event could bring news of major contracts and collaborations impacting aerospace sector stocks.
Corporate Reports: Midweek brings the most anticipated batch of corporate earnings, especially in high technology. After the US market closes on January 28, three mega-corporations from the technology sector will report their results for the fourth quarter of 2025: Microsoft, Tesla, and Meta (Facebook). Microsoft’s report (released in the evening) will show trends in cloud services and AI products—continued profitability growth in this segment could support the entire tech-heavy Nasdaq. Tesla will report on electric vehicle deliveries and profitability—investors are observing how price cuts on some models impact margins. Meta will present results in the online advertising segment and user engagement, which will serve as a litmus test for the social media market amid competition. Besides them, several other S&P 500 companies are scheduled to report on Wednesday evening: for instance, chip equipment manufacturer Lam Research and payment system Mastercard. Notably, Mastercard will release its fourth-quarter numbers slightly earlier, before market opening on the same day, and transaction volume forecasts will be crucial for assessing consumer activity. From the traditional sector, Boeing's report (if not released earlier in the morning) deserves attention—comments on new orders and supply chain recovery are important for the industry. In Europe, in the morning of Wednesday, Dutch firm ASML—a leading semiconductor equipment manufacturer—will release its results: ASML's figures will provide insights into the state of the global chip-making cycle. Thus, Wednesday will be a day of high volatility: the combination of central bank decisions and reports from tech giants could lead to sharp movements in indexes and currency rates.
Thursday, January 29
Macroeconomics: On Thursday, attention shifts to other regions and data releases. In the first half of the day, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is expected to announce its interest rate decision: the market anticipates the rate will be held steady (considering the inflation is near 3% and previous cuts), but comments from the regulator regarding South Africa’s economic outlook could influence the rand’s exchange rate and risk appetite in emerging markets. In Europe, there are no major regulatory decisions scheduled for this day (the ECB will hold a meeting next week), but separate data may be released—such as preliminary estimates of inflation in some Eurozone countries or consumer confidence indicators. Investors also continue to assess the outcomes of the FOMC meeting: the second day following the announced policy often features reassessment and market corrections. In the US, initial job claims are traditionally published on Thursdays—this timely labor market indicator will be of interest in the context of the Fed's rhetoric about an "easing" economy. Additionally, by the end of the month, the US Treasury may announce updated plans for issuing government debt, which affects bond yields. It is also worth noting the political backdrop: only one day remains until the deadline for US government funding, and news from Congress regarding the approval of a budget or another temporary agreement (or lack thereof) could significantly impact markets.
Corporate Reports: On January 29, investors will see another wave of major corporate releases on both sides of the Atlantic. The day’s standout event will be the financial results from Apple—the world’s most valuable company, reporting after the US market closes. This will be the first quarter of Apple's 2026 fiscal year, encompassing the holiday season, so record revenue is anticipated, particularly regarding sales of new iPhone models and the dynamics of the services business. Any surprises from Apple could significantly impact the Nasdaq and the entire technology sector. Additionally, on Thursday evening, Visa—the largest payment system—will present its quarterly results, indicating global consumer spending trends. Analysts expect growth in electronic payment volumes; investors will be keenly interested in Visa's forecasts for 2026 amid macroeconomic conditions. Prior to the Thursday trading start, Visa's competitor—Mastercard—will report (as mentioned, its data may appear early in the morning): together, the reports from both payment giants will provide a comprehensive view of trends in cashless payments and tourism. In Europe, on Thursday morning, German tech conglomerate SAP will release its financial report for 2025—investors will evaluate the growth of SAP’s cloud services and the forecast for the new year, which is crucial for the European tech sector. Moreover, Finnish company Nokia will release results in Europe: the report will show demand for 5G telecom equipment, especially amid intense competition in the global communications market. On the Russian market, no major financial releases are expected on Thursday, but various corporate calendar events may occur: for instance, "All Instruments" will disclose production results for 2025, and developer "Samolet" will hold an Investor Day where it may provide forecasts for the real estate market. Thus, on Thursday, investors will obtain important guidance from leaders in the technology and financial sectors, aiding in strategy adjustments as the week draws to a close.
Friday, January 30
Macroeconomics: The end of the working week is highlighted by the publication of key statistical data, particularly in Europe and Asia. In the Eurozone, the preliminary GDP estimate for the fourth quarter of 2025 will be released on Friday. Economists forecast weak growth or stagnation in the Eurozone economy at the end of the year—a result close to 0% quarter-on-quarter amid high ECB interest rates and energy uncertainty. The actual GDP figures will set the mood: better-than-expected growth will support the euro and European stocks, while negative figures will intensify discussions about potential easing of ECB policy later in 2026. Additionally, data from leading Eurozone countries (Germany, France), which often publish reports on the same day, will be of particular interest; special attention will be given to Germany, where industrial decline may have hindered growth. In Asia, early Friday will see Tokyo’s inflation for January released—the consumer price index in Tokyo serves as a leading indicator for all of Japan. Further deceleration in annual inflation to about ~2% is anticipated, which may reinforce the view of a temporary nature of the price surge in Japan and reduce pressure on the Bank of Japan to tighten policy. In the US, macro statistics may be constrained due to recent budget disputes: the report on US GDP for the fourth quarter was initially scheduled for January 30 but depended on funding for statistical agencies. If the US government is not shut down by this day, there may be data on personal income and spending for December (including PCE inflation)—investors will evaluate consumer spending dynamics at year-end. Finally, political intrigue reaches a peak: January 30 marks the end of the temporary US budget. If Congress does not finalize funding, there’s a risk of a partial government shutdown starting on January 31. Markets are highly sensitive to this issue—throughout Friday, any news regarding the progress (or failures) of budget negotiations may trigger significant fluctuations in the dollar, Treasury bonds, and the broad stock market.
Corporate Reports: Friday wraps up the week with powerful earnings reports from the largest oil and gas companies and other corporations. Before the US market opens on January 30, quarterly results will be released from two supermajors—ExxonMobil and Chevron. These reports are important not only for the companies’ shareholders but also for the entire energy sector and commodity markets: high oil prices at the end of 2025 are expected to have enabled both corporations to show strong profits and cash flows. Investors are also awaiting updates on share buyback programs and investment plans for production in 2026. Simultaneously, financial conglomerate American Express (AXP) will report—this Dow Jones issuer's report will reflect trends in premium consumer spending and credit card debt levels. Also on Friday morning, telecommunications giant Verizon will report on subscriber growth for 5G and its dividend outlook; any surprises could impact the entire communications sector. In the European market, the end of the week is relatively quiet in terms of new reports (most EU companies have either reported in previous days or are preparing for February). However, important operational data may surface in the Russian market on Friday: for example, Russian oil companies traditionally publish Q4 production and export figures towards the end of the month, influencing oil and gas share prices in Russia. After market closes on Friday, no significant reports are expected—investors will wrap up a busy week and prepare for new data the following week.
Weekend January 31 - February 1
Macroeconomics and Events: During the weekend, markets take a breather, but attention shifts to Asia. On Saturday, January 31, China will publish the official purchasing managers' index (PMI) for the manufacturing sector for January. This release comes even on the weekend, as it is a key indicator for the world’s second-largest economy. The PMI is expected to be around neutral levels at 50 points—staying near this mark would confirm stabilization of China’s industrial growth. An improvement of PMI above 50 would signal acceleration of activity ahead of the Spring Festival, while a drop below 50 would heighten concerns about weak domestic demand. On Sunday, February 1, no significant economic events are scheduled. Nevertheless, investors will be observing the developments in Washington: if the budget crisis in the US isn't resolved by Saturday, a partial federal government shutdown will begin on Sunday—markets will open the following week factoring in this issue. Moreover, a series of holidays in Asia is approaching—February starts next week, and market participants will account for the approaching Chinese New Year (with peak celebrations on February 17) and the related extended breaks for Asian exchanges.
Conclusion: What Investors Should Consider
The week from January 26 to February 1, 2026, promises to be eventful and will require investors to pay heightened attention to the news backdrop. **Firstly**, the outcome of the US Federal Reserve meeting and accompanying commentary will set the direction for global markets—even without a rate change, the tone of statements regarding the ongoing fight against inflation is significant. **Secondly**, a series of macroeconomic reports (Eurozone GDP, China’s PMI, Japan's inflation, US consumer confidence) will facilitate adjustments to projections for global growth: improving indicators will support risk appetite for risk assets, while weak data will heighten demand for safe-haven instruments (bonds, gold). **Thirdly**, the peak of the corporate reporting season continues: results from giants such as Microsoft, Apple, Tesla, Meta, Visa, ExxonMobil, and others may trigger capital reallocations between sectors. Investors should not only watch for earnings beats or misses but also consider the management's guidance for 2026—many companies share expectations for the entire year, impacting assessments of their stocks. **Finally**, geopolitical and political factors cannot be overlooked: the potential US government shutdown at the week’s end poses a risk to credit ratings and confidence in the dollar, as well as an indicator of American lawmakers' negotiation abilities. On the global stage, signs of stabilizing situations (for instance, progress in peace negotiations) or new hotspots of tension will affect energy prices and emerging market currencies. In anticipation of the upcoming Chinese New Year and the associated breaks in Asian exchange operations, investors around the world should rebalance their portfolios in a timely manner. In conclusion, the week promises volatility but also presents opportunities: informed analysis of economic trends and corporate reports will aid in making sound investment decisions.
