Reading the Macro Calendar

The economic reports that move markets most, when they come out, how markets react to them, and a simple plan for trading around big data days.

Why the calendar matters

Some days carry far more risk than others. When a major economic report or a Fed decision is scheduled, markets can move more in a few minutes than they do in an ordinary week. Traders who know what is coming can prepare; traders who do not can be caught off guard with oversized positions.

The good news is that almost all major economic releases are scheduled weeks or months in advance. A quick look at the calendar each Sunday tells you which days to treat with extra care.

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