The week of August 17–21 brings several important U.S. economic releases, with the July FOMC meeting minutes likely to be the biggest Fed/rates catalyst. Housing data, industrial production, jobless claims and PMI readings will also provide clues about economic growth and the Federal Reserve’s next move. 📌 What Investors Should Watch Housing: Housing starts and building permits will provide an updated view of U.S. residential construction and housing demand. Industrial Production: Tuesday's data will offer a read on manufacturing and broader industrial activity. FOMC Minutes: The July meeting minutes could provide additional clues about the Fed's debate over inflation, employment and the path of interest rates, making this the week's key event for markets. Jobless Claims: Thursday's claims data will provide another signal on the health of the U.S. labor market. PMIs: Friday's preliminary manufacturing and services PMI reports will give an early look at August business activity. 2026-08-17_06h24_11.png