U.S. financial markets are entering a closely watched week as investors prepare for new employment and inflation data that could influence the Federal Reserve’s interest-rate path.

Major U.S. stock indexes ended last week near record levels, with technology and AI-related stocks helping support the market. Investors are now turning their attention to economic reports that could provide new signals about the strength of the U.S. economy and future interest-rate decisions.

The October 2 employment report is expected to be the main focus for Wall Street this week. A key inflation report will also be closely monitored as investors assess whether price pressures could affect the Federal Reserve's approach to interest rates.

The market is also watching energy prices. Oil prices moved higher on Monday amid uncertainty surrounding the conflict involving Iran and the future of oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, adding another potential source of inflation pressure for businesses and consumers.

For U.S. companies, the combination of interest rates, inflation, energy costs and consumer demand could influence borrowing decisions, investment plans and earnings expectations during the final months of 2026.

The coming economic reports therefore give investors fresh information to assess the direction of the U.S. economy as the third quarter comes to an end.