Stocks edge higher as investors brace for US earnings season and key inflation data

From the Newshound archive · first published 12 October 2026.

Markets are treading carefully as traders await a wave of major bank earnings and fresh US inflation figures that could reshape rate expectations. Gold slipped on a stronger dollar while oil prices remained elevated despite some intraday volatility. The combination of geopolitical tensions and uncertain rate signals is keeping investors cautious ahead of what could be a pivotal week.

Bank earnings and inflation data are the twin triggers traders are watching most closely this week.

Oil has held stubbornly high despite some pullback, adding a further cost-pressure headache for markets.

Gold eased as the dollar strengthened, with investors repositioning ahead of the data releases.