US Stocks to Watch: Inflation, Earnings, and Key Data This Week

US Market Snapshot: August 11–17, 2025

The US stock market heads into the week with mixed signals. The S&P 500 rose approximately 2% in July, with most of the gains attributed to a few large companies, including Nvidia, Microsoft, and Meta.

The Nasdaq reached a record high of 21,450, driven by strong performance from chip and tech stocks. The Dow and S&P 500 also ended the week higher, even with some ups and downs along the way.

Currently, large growth companies are priced high, while smaller and more traditional businesses appear more affordable. The economy is still slowing, and experts don’t expect it to pick up much until 2026. Many traders think the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates in September, so this week’s data on prices and spending will be important.

Key Events to Watch

Tuesday, Aug 12 – US Consumer Price Index (CPI)
Shows if prices are rising faster or slower. Higher numbers can worry investors, while lower numbers may be good news for stocks.

Thursday, Aug 14 – US Producer Price Index (PPI)
Measures business costs. If these prices rise, companies may face increased pressure.

Friday, Aug 15 – US Retail Sales & Consumer Sentiment
Retail sales indicate the amount of money people are spending. Consumer sentiment measures the level of confidence shoppers have in the economy.

Big Earnings This Week

Mon, Aug 11 – AMC Entertainment (AMC)
Tue, Aug 12 – Cardinal Health (CAH), Sea Limited (SE), Tencent Music (TME)
Wed, Aug 13 – Cisco Systems (CSCO)
Thu, Aug 14 – Applied Materials (AMAT), Deere & Company (DE), JD.com (JD), NetEase (NTES), Nu Holdings (NU)

Alibaba (BABA) reports next week on Aug 21.

Sectors in Focus

• Technology: AI and chip demand remain strong. Cisco and Applied Materials earnings could give clues on business spending.

• Retail: Amazon and other e-commerce names could react to Friday’s sales numbers.

• Aerospace: Companies like Howmet Aerospace are experiencing steady demand from airlines and the defence sector.

• Healthcare & Energy: Healthcare remains steady; energy prices could rise if data points to higher inflation.

Top Stocks to Watch

• Nvidia $NVDA ( ▲ 0.63% ): AI leader that could react to inflation data.

• Amazon $AMZN ( ▼ 0.15% ): Friday’s retail sales could move the stock.

• Cisco Systems $CSCO ( ▲ 0.6% ): Reports Wednesday. Look for updates on AI and network demand.

• Microsoft $MSFT ( ▼ 0.92% ): Still an indicator for tech demand even after July’s report.

• Howmet Aerospace $HWM ( ▲ 0.83% ): Up 65% this year on strong aerospace orders.

• AMC Entertainment $AMC ( ▼ 0.67% ): Earnings Monday; known for sudden price swings.

• Mastercard $MA ( ▲ 0.04% ): Reflects consumer spending trends ahead of Friday’s report.

Bottom line: This week’s price and spending data could set the tone. Incredible inflation numbers might keep tech stocks climbing; higher numbers might push investors toward other sectors.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always conduct your own research or speak to a qualified professional before investing.