Economic Calendar

Monday, January 20

01:00 GMT

The People’s Bank of China will set the 1- and 5-year Loan Prime Rate (LPR). This is a benchmark lending rate to influence short-term interest rates as part of its monetary policy strategy. After months of sub-par growth, and negative inflation, China is stuck in a deflationary environment. The PBOC is therefore expected to up its efforts to help achieve the government’s growth targets and reverse the slump in the stock market, yuan and bond yields.

What to watch: CNH, Japan 225

Friday, January 24

04:00 GMT

In recent days, the Japanese yen has displayed strength across the board. Japan’s yields, supported by hawkish comments from BoJ Governor Ueda and potential rate hikes, have contributed to narrowing the yield gap with other nations, boosting the yen’s performance. Weaker US and UK inflation data have also helped narrow the gap somewhat. But will the BoJ hike rates again after the initial lift off back in July?

What to watch: JPY, Japan 225

Friday, January 24

All day

Global growth concerns have been among factors behind the softness in some of the major currencies such as the euro, pound and yuan. The Purchasing Manager’s Indices are leading indicators of economic health. The rationale is that businesses react quickly to market conditions, and their purchasing managers hold some of the most current insights into the company's view of the economy.

What to watch: EUR, GBP