The Week Ahead
Tuesday, Proctor and Gamble (PG) is expected to report a 15% increase in profits.
Wednesday, Google (GOOG) is expected to post an 88% increase in quarterly revenues.
Thursday, Exxon Mobil (XOM) is expected to report decreased earnings on lower oil prices and increased exploration costs.
Friday, Chevron (CVX) is also expected to post decreased earnings as the sector braces itself for volatile prices.
Also on Friday, the Labor Department will report its December nonfarm payrolls. The report is expected to be a key indicator of the effect the weakening housing market will have on the larger economy, since an excess decrease in payrolls is likely to be due to decreased home building.
Wednesday, the Fed will end its policy meeting, and most economists are expecting rates to remain unchanged at 5.25%. Though the economy seems to be growing at an acceptable rate, inflation pressures are likely to be a major discussion, and possibly cause for a rate increase.
