Mumbai, Jan. 12 -- Markets head into a pivotal week shaped by key inflation readings, growth data, and central bank signals across major regions. In the United States, attention will centre on the December CPI report as persistent price pressures keep the Federal Reserve cautious. A busy data calendar-including retail sales, producer prices, industrial output, and housing indicators-will help clarify the strength of domestic demand, while earnings from major US banks will offer insight into credit conditions and corporate profitability.
In Asia, investors will closely watch China's trade and credit data for signs of stabilisation in external demand and the impact of ongoing policy support. Japan's current account balance, machinery orders,...