CPI and Jobless Claims Watch:
Today’s economic spotlight falls on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and jobless claims, critical indicators of inflation and labor market health. CPI, expected to rise 0.3% month-over-month, will signal whether inflationary pressures are easing or persisting. Core CPI, excluding volatile food and energy, remains key for gauging underlying trends—economists predict a 0.2% uptick. A higher-than-expected print could stoke fears of tighter Fed policy, while softer data might fuel hopes for rate cuts. Meanwhile, initial jobless claims are projected to hold steady near 220,000, reflecting a resilient labor market despite recent layoffs in tech and manufacturing. Continuing claims, a proxy for hiring trends, bear watching after ticking up slightly. Markets are jittery, with bonds and equities poised for volatility. Investors should brace for surprises, as these numbers could sway sentiment on growth and monetary policy. Stay tuned for updates post-release!
