Retailers' Earnings, Fed Minutes Ahead as Inflation Concerns Linger

The upcoming week on Wall Street will be filled with key earnings reports from several major retailers and more insight into the Federal Reserve's interest rate policy.

On Tuesday, Home Depot will release its latest results, followed by Target and Lowes on Wednesday, and then Walmart on Thursday. These reports will provide investors with a better understanding of how businesses and consumers are handling high inflation.

The rate of inflation remains above 3%, driven in part by the ongoing US war with Iran, which led to a surge in oil prices and higher gasoline costs. This increase in prices could prompt people to cut back on spending or shift their budget allocations.

Home Depot's results may offer more insight into the housing market, while Target and Walmart's reports will provide information about household budgets and spending habits.

The Federal Reserve will also release minutes from its July meeting on Wednesday, which will shed more light on the central bank's interest rate policy. Fed Chair Kevin Warsh described the discussion as a 'good family fight.' Wall Street expects at least one rate hike before the end of 2026.