The Big Picture - Macro Perspective on the Capital Markets, Economy, Technology, and Digital Media

U.S. Week Ahead: Personal Spending In Focus 6/19/2009

There’s a Fed meeting and a fresh round of housing data but it’s personal spending that may headline the week. Plus, a look at the companies to report earnings.

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Europe’s Week Ahead: Results from H&M

The latest readings on Germany’s IFO survey and the euro-zone purchasing manager’s index could show a further gradual improvement in outlook. Results from fashion chain Hennes & Mauritz and Kesa Electricals will also be in focus.

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Asia’s Week Ahead: A Full Economic Calendar

Investors will get data on New Zealand’s first-quarter GDP as well as Japan’s trade balance and consumer price inflation. Taiwan’s central bank is expected to keep rates unchanged at 1.25%. MarketWatch’s Polya Lesova reports.