Markets are bracing for a hot April CPI report, with economists expecting headline inflation to rise 3.7% year-over-year after March’s sharp 0.9% monthly jump. Surging gasoline prices — fueled by escalating Iran-related oil tensions — were responsible for nearly three-quarters of March’s inflation spike. A stronger-than-expected reading would reinforce the Federal Reserve’s “higher for longer” interest rate stance, potentially pressuring stocks, crypto, and risk assets. Investors now see energy prices and inflation data as the key drivers for the next major market move.
