In this episode, we're discussing the much-anticipated Consumer Price Index inflation report released this morning. Unfortunately, the report came in hotter than expected on the headline and core inflation levels. On a year-over-year basis, core CPI rose 3.9% versus the expected 3.8%, while headline CPI came in at 3.4% versus the forecasted 3.2%. This is unwelcome news for the Federal Reserve. We dig into the report's details showing sticky inflation in areas like housing, shelter, services, airline fares, and used cars - categories the Fed will pay close attention to. Given this hotter-than-expected inflation data, markets are down today. Specifically, bond yields rise while equity futures fall as interest rate expectations increase. Fed futures are now pricing out the possibility of a March rate cut. If you have any questions or comments on this analysis, please feel free to reach out to podcast at verdence dot com.

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About the host, Megan Horneman

As Chief Investment Officer at Verdence Capital Advisors, Megan Horneman brings a wealth of experience to "Markets with Megan." She leads Verdence’s research team, sets the firm's economic outlook, and directs strategic asset allocation for client portfolios. Megan is a reliable voice in financial media and is regularly featured on Fox Business, CNBC, Bloomberg, and Yahoo Finance. With over a decade at Deutsche Bank as a Senior Investment Strategist and roles on global investment committees, she delivers insights into market trends with clarity and depth.