As global markets grapple with the aftershocks of U.S. tariffs, this week’s calendar is stacked with high-impact events — from mega-cap tech earnings to central bank decisions and political elections.
1. Mega-Cap Tech Earnings in Focus
Earnings from the “Magnificent Seven” tech titans are set to dominate headlines, with Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL), Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN), and Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) scheduled to report. These companies, once the engine of market rallies, are now under pressure amid economic uncertainty and changing investor sentiment.
Key highlights:
Over 70% of S&P 500 companies that have reported so far beat earnings estimates (LSEG data).
S&P 500 Q1 earnings growth has been revised up to +9.7% YoY, from +8.0% on April 1.
Many companies have reduced or removed forward guidance due to tariff-related uncertainty.
Investors are watching not just the topline numbers, but also management commentary around supply chains, costs, and geopolitical risks.
2. U.S. Economic Data and Tariff Impact
This week’s economic calendar is packed with data that could redefine expectations around growth and inflation:
GDP report – Wednesday
PCE Price Index (inflation) – Wednesday
ISM Manufacturing PMI – Thursday
Nonfarm Payrolls (Jobs Report) – Friday
Markets will be paying close attention to labor market signals. As ING notes, “Recessions often start and end with shifts in unemployment.”
3. Bank of Japan Policy Decision
The Bank of Japan (BOJ) meets on Wednesday and is expected to hold rates steady following March’s historic move out of negative territory. Analysts anticipate:
A downward revision to economic forecasts due to the global slowdown and U.S. tariffs.
Continued emphasis on wage growth and inflation as key triggers for future rate hikes.
With the yen under pressure and inflation risks growing, the BOJ’s next steps could have major FX market implications.
4. Canadian Elections Amid U.S. Trade Tensions
Canada’s snap election, triggered by former PM Justin Trudeau’s resignation, concludes Monday. The race between Liberal PM Mark Carney and Conservative Pierre Poilievre has been shaped by Trump-era trade rhetoric and ongoing U.S. tariffs.
While Carney’s Liberals have gained late momentum, polls suggest a tight race that may require coalition formation to govern.
Monitor Market Reaction in Real Time
For a deeper view into earnings-driven volatility, inflation updates, and broader macro sentiment, use the Economics Calendar API. It provides real-time updates on GDP, inflation, and employment indicators that matter to investors this week.
Pair it with the Earnings Calendar API to stay ahead of earnings reports from Microsoft, Apple, Meta, and more.
Conclusion
This week marks a convergence of powerful market forces: earnings from the biggest names in tech, U.S. economic clarity amid trade friction, global central bank action, and political risk from Canada. Together, they could reshape sentiment heading into May — a month where investors will be looking for direction amid rising volatility.
