Q4 2018 GDP data is released from China on Monday January 21
- On Friday we got news that China had revised its 2017 (yes 2017) GDP result down, from the previously reported 6.9% to 6.8%
- What will the final quarter of 2018 look like? The front loading of exports ahead of US tariffs may well see a good results, enough to hit the government 2018 target of 6.5% anyway.
- While the data on Monday won't offer any clues for this coming year I have seen a report today of a ratcheting lower in expectations from Chinese authorities to a 6-6.5% range target.
Wednesday 23 January - New Zealand CPI for Q4 2018
- Headline inflation is expected to show below the RBNZ forecast, while 'core' underlying inflation is likely to be a little above. Don't forget that after the Stats people in NZ publish the inflation numbers the RBNZ will publish their own measures later … these are well worth watching as potential kiwi movers.
Wednesday 23 January - Bank of Japan policy statement
- check this preview out BOJ is about to cut is inflation outlook
Thursday 24 January - Australia employment report for December
- Jobs market growth was solid into the end of 2018. Wage growth is slow, as it has been for a good while (and not only in Australia of course). A slowing in jobs growth will hit the AUD.
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While not Asia, January 24 brings the European Central Bank meeting and policy decision
