Softer Inflation Steadies Markets Amid Uncertainty
Stock index futures opened lower but reversed up slightly higher after January’s CPI report came in cooler than expected, easing some inflation concerns. Headline CPI rose +0.2% MoM and +2.4% YoY, both below consensus, while core CPI (excluding food and energy) met expectations at +0.3% MoM and +2.5% YoY. The data is meaningful as markets weigh the future path of interest rates, particularly with tariff-related inflation risks and Kevin Warsh’s policy stance coming into focus ahead of his tenure. For now, softer inflation offers some relief to rate-sensitive assets and helps steady sentiment.