The market rallied last week (S&P 500 +3.3% , Nasdaq +3.1%, Russell 200 +5.0%), with gains mostly broad based and secured entirely over two trading sessions (Wednesday and Friday). CPI July numbers on Wednesday did not move higher as had been feared, reflecting signs of disinflation. The same is also reflected on Thursday’s July PPI data. This triggered a huge upswing in the major indices, as investors relished the idea that inflation might have peaked and Fed might be able to temper the pace of its rate hikes for a soft landing.
The center stage for this week will be taken by the latest FOMC meeting minutes, which will be scrutinized for clues about the magnitude of upcoming rate hikes. Investors will get an update on U.S. retail sales along with earnings results from several major retailers, which will be parsed for insights into the strength of consumer spending amid elevated price pressures....