The Dow Jones Industrial Average traded sideways as investors held their breath ahead of a slew of earnings reports. Market watchers are keen to see whether companies can maintain their profit margins amid rising inflation. Several key economic indicators are also due to be released this week, which could further influence market sentiment.

Analysts suggest that the market’s direction will largely depend on the content of the forthcoming earnings reports and economic data. Concerns about interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve are also weighing on investor sentiment.