Although still hundreds of miles off the east coast of the U.S., hurricane Florence was already impacting the markets on Monday. With the hurricane predicted to be a major event in the southeast, insurance companies Traveller’s and Allstate were each down around 2% Monday. Overall the markets were in an optimistic mood anticipating new tax cuts to be proposed later this week by a Republican held Congress. There was little worry about the tariff wars on Monday outside of Apple (AAPL), which said the tariff battle with China would impact products sold there, resulting in a pullback in the stock.

Tuesday the market will get earnings from Peak Resorts (SKIS). The owner of multiple ski properties has been on a roll this past winter. Fighting fickle weather patterns in the eastern U.S. the company invested heavily in additional snowmaking equipment and provided a multi-property lift pass. The bet paid off with record earnings last year. Analysts will be looking for additional innovative actions from the ski operator going forward. Also reporting on Tuesday will be Farmer Brothers (FARM). The coffee bean roaster had a difficult time pinpointing growth in its customer base last quarter. Investors would like to hear if that issue has been remedied, and if the company can now more accurately provide future growth data.

On Tuesday the market will hear how optimistic small businesses are in the current environment. Ten years after the anniversary of the financial meltdown, which is being revisited by multiple news outlets this week, the July small business optimism index stood at the second highest reading in 45 years. The index is expected to tick up slightly for August. We’ll also get Redbook retail data, wholesale trade numbers, and job openings data on Tuesday. The housing market will be in focus on Wednesday with new mortgage applications data being released. Other than trade issues, housing still tops the list of many economists as the sector which may slow the current market run. Purchases are expected to rise slightly but be offset by a slight decline in refinancing. Wednesday we’ll also get PPI, Atlanta Fed business inflation expectations, and a petroleum status report. With Florence closer to the U.S. by Wednesday, the petroleum status report may take on added significance.

Jumping into the earnings ring on Wednesday is Oxford Industries (OXM) The owner of Tommy Bahama and Lilly Pulitzer is expected to far outstrip earnings from a year ago. Last quarter Oxford’s direct-to-consumer ecommerce business was hitting on all cylinders. Analysts will be questioning the growth prospects for the company as competition continues to rise. Sticking with the same theme, Tailored Brands (TLRD) will also report on Wednesday. The owner of Men’s Wearhouse and Jos. A. Bank provided preliminary earnings guidance on August 28th, so the market isn’t expecting any big surprises. Investors would like an update on the performance of the company’s new LIVE! strategy which connects online shoppers with in-store wardrobe consultants.    

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