"Economists and market-watchers will be very interested to see if confidence has rebounded from the weak post-election readings, which looked to be very much a knee-jerk reaction to a change in government.'' "Markets will be interested to see whether Powell offers his personal outlook for the economy and markets, as well as for any comments on inflation and interest rates.'' Two key events were taking place in Europe over the next week or so, Mr Timms said. Median earnings growth for 2018 has risen to 6.1%, up from 5.6% on January 31,'' Mr Timms said. This month, 15 companies had their consensus earnings estimates bumped up and 10 had had them reduced, Mr Timms said.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 26, 2018 15:56 UTC