#CPI&JoblessClaimsWatch

U.S. consumer prices rose more than expected in March, with the CPI climbing 0.4% month-over-month and 3.5% year-over-year, driven by persistent increases in shelter and gasoline costs. Core CPI, which excludes food and energy, also increased 0.4% for the month and 3.8% annually. These figures suggest inflation remains sticky, potentially delaying any Federal Reserve rate cuts.

Meanwhile, jobless claims rose slightly to 211,000 last week, indicating a still-resilient labor market. The low level of claims supports the view that the economy remains robust despite tighter monetary policy. Together, the data reinforces expectations that the Fed may remain cautious, keeping interest rates higher for longer to tame inflation pressures.