3/6/09

UK - PPI Input

Actual0.60%|Forecast0.10%|Previous1.50%

The Producer Price Index (PPI) determines the rate of inflation (i.e., the rate of price changes) experienced by manufacturers when purchasing goods and services. When manufactures pay more for goods and services, they are likely to pass the higher costs to the consumer, so PPI is thought to be a leading indicator of consumer inflation. A rising trend has a positive effect on the nation's currency. PPI is highly regarded, and at extremes will have a market impact equal to that of its CPI counterpart.

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USA - Non-Farm Employment Change

Actual-651.00K|Forecast-636.00K|Previous-598.00K

Determines the change in amount of employed people during the last month, excluding the farming industry. A rising trend has a positive effect on the nation's currency. This report is the first of the month that relates to human resource conditions, making it susceptible to big surprises. Job creation is an important indicator of economic health as consumption, which is highly correlated with human resource conditions, makes up a large portion of GDP.

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USA - Unemployment Rate

Actual8.10%|Forecast7.90%|Previous7.60%

Determines the percentage of total work force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment during the last quarter. A downward trend has a positive effect on the nation's currency as working people tend to spend more money, and consumption makes up a large portion of GDP.