Tech Sector and Central Banks Take Spotlight in Busy Week

A Closer Look at Tech Sector Profits and Key Economic Reports

Following a notable rally last week, the tech sector will be in the spotlight this week thanks to companies like Nvidia, AMD, Broadcom, Arm Holdings, and Micron Technology. As we head into the heart of the week, the focus will shift to crucial growth indicators.

Investors are gearing up to pore over the U.S. preliminary Q4 GDP figures and international flash PMIs, hoping to glean a deeper understanding of the economic landscape. Meanwhile, it’s a busy period for central banks worldwide with the Bank of Japan, European Central Bank, and Bank of Canada all set to reveal important policy decisions and interest rate updates.

In the U.S., Federal Reserve officials will observe a silent run-up to their January 30-31 meeting. Amidst all this, the earnings scene is abuzz with anticipation for financial disclosures from the likes of Tesla, Netflix, Visa, and American Airlines Group.

Dividend Payouts on the Rise

• For those tracking dividend patterns, you’ll notice a few companies stepping up their game. Nexstar Media is expected to hike its dividend to $1.54, up from $1.35.
• Elevance Health looks to increase its payout to $1.67 from $1.48.
• Blackstone is on track to enhance its dividend to $0.90, a leap from $0.80.
• Not to be left out, Franklin Electric is aiming to raise its dividend to $0.25 from $0.225.
• Additionally, Comcast is set to sweeten its quarterly dividend to $0.31 from $0.29.

The IPO Scene and the Wave of Lockup Period Expiries

In the IPO realm, BrightSpring Health Services is ready to step into the limelight, offering over 53 million shares priced between $15 and $18. Meanwhile, the clock is ticking down to the end of the lockup periods for a handful of companies, a situation that could stir up trading waters for Warrantee, Cadrenal Therapeutics, Earlyworks, Janover, and ParaZero Technologies.

Following a period of silence, NB analysts will finally be able to share their ratings, drawing fresh attention to the stock. Also on the horizon is Reddit’s planned IPO in March, which has been in the works since they first sought IPO guidance almost three years ago.

Investor Events to Keep on Your Radar

Investors have several noteworthy events to look forward to. The TD Securities Global Mining Conference will span three days, offering a stage for companies like Arizona Sonoran Copper Company, Endeavor Group Holdings, and E3 Lithium Limited to showcase their narratives.

Meanwhile, the Jefferies Consumer Summit will turn the spotlight on the consumer sector, featuring companies such as BJ’s Restaurants, Xponential Fitness, and First Watch Restaurant Group. Additionally, Jack in the Box is slated to host its 2024 Investor Day on January 24, providing an opportunity for the company’s leadership to share their vision with investors and analysts.