Top Economic Events to Watch | March 31 - April 4, 2025

Get ready, traders! This week brings three major economic reports—US Non-Farm Payroll (NFP), ADP Employment Change, and ISM Manufacturing PMI—all of which have the power to shift markets. More than just mere stats, they shape market trends, Federal Reserve decisions, and trading strategies across stocks, forex, and bonds. 

With key employment data and economic indicators hitting the scene, the Federal Reserve’s next interest rate move could be on the line. But that’s not all—traders will also be tuned in to Fed officials' statements on rates and the latest ceasefire developments in Ukraine, both of which could send ripples through global markets. Let’s break down why these events matter. 

US Non-Farm Payroll (NFP) – April 4 

What’s the Buzz? 

The NFP report, straight from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), tracks how many jobs the economy added (or lost) last month. Excludes farmers, government workers, and some others, but covers most of the workforce. It’s THE report that tells us if the job market is hot or not. 

Why It’s a Big Deal: 

Strong NFP = A booming job market = Higher chances of Fed rate hikes = Market volatility! 

Weak NFP = Economic slowdown = Fed might ease up = Potential market rally. 

Who’s Watching? (Hint: Everyone) 

Stock Traders: A strong jobs report can pump up equities, while weak data could spark sell-offs. 

Forex Players: A strong NFP usually boosts the USD, while weak data can send it down. 

Bond Investors: Higher employment can mean rising Treasury yields as markets price in rate hikes. 

ADP Non-Farm Employment Change – April 2

What’s the Buzz? 

Think of this as a sneak peek into NFP. Published by ADP, this report tracks private-sector job gains (or losses) and gives traders an early clue about where the official NFP might land. 

Why It’s a Big Deal: 

If ADP smashes expectations, traders anticipate a strong NFP = Markets could react early! 

If ADP disappoints, traders might brace for a weak NFP = Safe-haven assets like gold could shine. 

Who’s Watching? 

Forex Traders: A strong ADP number strengthens the USD, while a weak one can trigger a dip. 

Stock Traders: A solid ADP print can push equities higher, especially in employment-sensitive sectors. 

Gold Bugs: A weaker labor market may boost gold as investors hedge against uncertainty. 

ISM Manufacturing PMI – April 1 

What’s the Buzz? 

This one’s all about the health of the manufacturing sector. Published by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), this report tells us if factories are booming or struggling. A reading above 50 = Expansion. Below 50 = Contraction. 

Why It’s a Big Deal: 

Strong PMI = Factories are buzzing, demand is high = Bullish for stocks, USD, and industrials. 

Weak PMI = Economic slowdown fears = Risk-off moves, bond rally, weaker USD. 

Who’s Watching? 

Equity Traders: Industrial and manufacturing stocks react HARD to this one. 

Forex Players: A strong PMI can lift the USD, while a weak one can drag it lower. 

Commodity Traders: Since manufacturing drives demand for materials, metals like copper and oil react sharply. 

Stay sharp and ready, traders! 🔍 With jobs data, Fed signals, and global events in play, markets won’t sit still. Big moves are coming—trade smart and stay ahead! 🚀