Investing.com – As markets approach the final weeks of 2023, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s statements about the likely conclusion of the historic tightening of monetary policy and the potential discussion of rate cuts are influencing market sentiments. Key updates on U.S. inflation and a potential shift in the Bank of Japan’s policy add to the significant events to watch for this week. Here’s a breakdown to guide your week:

1. U.S. Data Focus: Investors await the last inflation update for the year with Friday’s release of the personal consumption expenditures report, the primary inflation gauge for the Federal Reserve. Expectations are for the PCE price index to remain unchanged for November, while the core measure, excluding volatile food and energy costs, is anticipated to rise by 0.2%. Additionally, data on consumer confidence, initial jobless claims, durable goods orders, and reports on new and existing home sales will provide insights into various sectors. Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic is scheduled to speak on Tuesday.

2. Santa Claus Rally? The Dow Jones industrial average achieved another record high close on Friday, and the S&P 500 recorded its seventh consecutive week of gains. While optimism prevailed, some caution emerged after Fed Bank of New York President John Williams mentioned it was premature to discuss rate cuts. The possibility of a “Santa Claus rally” remains uncertain, but a gradual upward drift is considered plausible by some market analysts.

3. BOJ Pivot Anticipation: Expectations are growing that the Bank of Japan (BOJ) might end negative interest rates in the coming months, deviating from the dovish stance of other major central banks. Although a change is not expected at the BOJ’s upcoming policy meeting, investors will closely scrutinize the rate statement for indications of a potential pivot in January. Speculation about a policy shift has already influenced the strength of the yen against the dollar.

4. Gold’s Annual Gain: Gold is poised to achieve its first annual increase since 2020, benefiting from a weaker dollar and rising expectations of rate cuts in 2024. Lower interest rates enhance the attractiveness of holding zero-yield gold. Despite rising U.S. 10-year yields, gold has surged above $2,000 an ounce, backed by investor confidence in future rate cuts and increasing political and economic uncertainty.

5. U.K. Inflation Data: U.K. inflation, currently more than double the Bank of England’s 2% target, will be confirmed in the latest data release on Wednesday. The pound reached a three-month high against the euro, driven by speculations that the BoE might delay rate cuts compared to the European Central Bank. However, the potential impact of high rates on the U.K. economy, expected to remain flat in 2024, raises considerations about sterling strength and the BoE’s response to inflation trends.

As these key events unfold, investors navigate the closing weeks of 2023 amid evolving economic conditions and central bank dynamics.