#CPI&JoblessClaimsWatch

Let's break down the latest data on Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Jobless Claims:

*CPI:*

- The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) decreased 0.1% on a seasonally adjusted basis in March 2025, following a 0.2% increase in February.

- The all items index rose 2.4% over the last 12 months, while the all items less food and energy index increased 2.8%.

- Energy prices fell 2.4% in March, led by a 6.3% decline in gasoline prices, while food prices rose 0.4%.

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*Jobless Claims:*

- Initial jobless claims remained subdued at 223,000 for the most recent week, with the four-week average unchanged.

- The labor market remains historically strong, with layoffs not picking up and small businesses raising wages.

- The Atlanta Fed Wage Tracker posted another reading above 5%, indicating labor costs are still high ² ³.

*Market Impact:*

- The data has led to a slight decrease in equity futures and an increase in the ten-year yield, making a Fed rate cut in March less likely.

- Some analysts believe the current inflation trend is influenced by wage pressures and demand growth, which could impact