Latest Business News
U.S. markets rally near record highs despite geopolitical and energy pressures
ALM First notes that equity markets hit new highs in April even with the ongoing Iran conflict and elevated fuel costs, showing resilient investor sentiment. That backdrop keeps markets sensitive to any new economic or policy shock.
New York Fed services activity improves but remains weak
The New York Fed’s Services Business Activity index came in at -5.8, better than the prior -14 but still signaling contraction. That suggests service-sector conditions remain soft even as the pace of decline eases.
U.S. housing sentiment holds steady ahead of key housing data
The NAHB Housing Market Index is listed at 34, matching the prior reading and indicating homebuilder confidence remains subdued. Investors are watching whether higher financing costs continue to weigh on residential demand.
Pending home sales data due as housing market watches for stabilization
Pending Home Sales are expected to be released with a monthly gain forecast of 1.0% after a prior 1.5% increase. The report will help show whether housing demand is holding up as mortgage rates and affordability pressures remain in focus.
Fed minutes due, offering clues on policy path
The FOMC Meeting Minutes are scheduled for May 20 and are likely to draw close attention from markets. Traders will look for any hints about how policymakers are balancing inflation risks, growth concerns, and the timing of future moves.
Weekly jobless claims remain a key labor-market test
Initial Jobless Claims are forecast at 210,000, slightly below the prior 211,000. A stable reading would reinforce the view that the labor market is cooling only gradually rather than deteriorating sharply.
Building permits point to modest improvement in construction activity
Building Permits are expected at 1,380k versus 1,363k previously, with monthly growth forecast at 2.2%. The data will help gauge whether homebuilding is beginning to recover from the drag of high borrowing costs.
U.S. business surveys suggest moderate private-sector expansion
S&P Global’s flash PMIs are expected to show manufacturing at 53.8, services at 51.0, and composite at 51.6. Those readings would indicate continued expansion, though at a measured pace.
Kansas City Fed manufacturing index signals steady regional activity
The Kansas City Fed manufacturing activity index is forecast at 10, unchanged from the prior reading. That would suggest Midwestern factory conditions remain positive but not especially strong.
Consumer sentiment data may reveal pressure on household outlook
The University of Michigan sentiment index is expected to hold at 48.2, with current conditions near 47.9. Persistent weakness would imply consumers remain cautious about the economy and their personal finances.
Global finance forum in Chengdu highlights international financial cooperation
A live webcast from the 2026 Tsinghua PBCSF Global Finance Forum in Chengdu shows the event focusing on global financial issues and cooperation. The forum underscores how international investors and policymakers are still debating capital flows and market stability.
European bulletin highlights business, legal, and capital-market developments
Euronews’ latest bulletin includes a Spanish court ordering a major tax refund to Shakira and coverage of Uzbekistan’s first international IPO. Those stories point to active legal and investment developments across Europe and Central Asia.