Trump and Xi dine with AI titans and Meta takes the stage: What to watch this week

Trump-Xi Meeting and Corporate Reports Set Market Focus for Week Ahead

With the Federal Reserve decision and the bulk of third-quarter earnings reports completed, the final full week of September features a lighter schedule of economic releases. Attention now turns to corporate updates and the scheduled meeting between President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, alongside a major industry event from Meta Platforms.

Last week, major U.S. equity indexes posted limited net changes following the first Federal Reserve rate increase since 2023. Market participants examined bond yields and equity valuations to assess the implications of the policy shift. Analysis of the rate decision’s potential effects on inflation remains a primary topic, as stock movements reflected offsetting influences from elevated bond yields and corporate earnings projections.

Costco Wholesale Corporation and Darden Restaurants are scheduled to report results, offering data on consumer spending patterns. Costco’s figures are viewed as an indicator of price trends at the retail level. KB Home is also set to release its report, with commentary expected on the impact of recent mortgage rate increases. In the absence of major government economic releases, secondary data points on the calendar may draw additional scrutiny.

Trump and Xi Scheduled for Meeting Involving Technology Executives

President Trump is hosting Chinese President Xi Jinping for their second meeting of 2026. The prior encounter occurred during Trump’s visit to China in May. Developments since that time include an ongoing conflict involving Iran, associated energy market pressures, and competition in artificial intelligence technology between the two nations.

Market participants are monitoring the discussions for signs of an extension to the existing trade arrangement between the United States and China, which is set to expire in November. Continuation of the current terms is widely anticipated, though outcomes on other bilateral issues remain uncertain. Topics expected to arise include Taiwan and the status of the Iran conflict.

The meeting is also described as including participation from executives in the artificial intelligence sector. Separately, Meta Platforms is holding a large-scale conference during the week, which is expected to feature product announcements and strategy updates relevant to investors.

No major macroeconomic data releases are listed for the period. Observers will track any statements from company management during earnings calls for indications of demand trends and cost pressures. Historical records show that prior U.S.-China leadership meetings have coincided with varying degrees of movement in equity and currency markets, depending on the specific announcements that followed.