Markets begin the week on edge after sharp losses sparked by new trade measures. With U.S. tariffs taking effect and more lined up for April 9, traders are bracing for impact. Below are 5 market events to watch this week that could steer stocks, sentiment, and policy moves.
Edward Jones analyst Brock Weimer said tariffs are a drag in the short term but noted both the U.S. and Canada entered 2025 with economic momentum.
Inflation data, the TikTok deal deadline, and earnings reports all add to a packed and volatile calendar.
1. Trade War Escalation Leads 5 Market Events to Watch This Week
The U.S. market plunge deepened after China responded to a wave of U.S. import taxes. The S&P 500 fell over 10%, the steepest weekly loss since 2020.
More tariffs kick in on April 9. Analysts warn this could dent global trade and possibly push some regions into recession. The EU is also considering countermeasures, adding more pressure.
Investors will be watching for any policy shift or fresh statements from key players.
2. Trump’s Online Posts Keep Markets on Edge
President Trump stayed active online through the weekend, defending his strategy and calling China’s response weak. He also warned against fentanyl shipments and repeated that foreign money is flowing into the U.S.
Traders will monitor Trump’s messages closely his posts often shake investor sentiment, especially during tense trade talks.
3. Big Banks Kick Off the Earnings Season
Another key piece of this week’s puzzle is the start of earnings season. Major banks like JPMorgan, BlackRock, Wells Fargo, and Morgan Stanley all report Friday.
Earlier in the week, Levi Strauss, Walgreens, and Cal-Maine share results. Delta’s earnings on Wednesday may show how travel demand holds up under cost and global pressure.
Still, even strong numbers may not boost the market if trade fears keep growing.
4. Inflation Report Lands Thursday
Thursday’s March CPI report is among the top 5 market events to watch this week, offering a fresh look at inflation pressures.
Barclays expects muted numbers now, but says April’s tariffs could push prices higher later. The report may affect expectations for a potential Fed rate cut in May.
5. TikTok Deal Gets More Time
The White House gave ByteDance 75 more days to sell TikTok’s U.S. unit, moving the deadline into June. Trump said more time is needed but added national security concerns haven’t been resolved.
Amazon, Oracle, and AppLovin are reportedly interested in buying the app. The deal is now tied closely to U.S.–China relations and could stir further volatility depending on how talks go.
