Read the highlights of this week’s commentary from Helios:
- In February, the US experienced a slight acceleration in inflation, with year-over-year prices growing by 3.2%, a bit more than expected, and marking a modest increase from January’s 3.1% rise. Monthly inflation also picked up pace, attributed largely to rising gas costs and shelter expenses, which together accounted for over 60% of the increase.
- February’s US retail sales grew by 0.6%, missing the 0.8% forecast, with revisions showing decreased spending in previous months. This slowdown, especially in services, suggests a shift to more cautious consumer spending, potentially easing long-term inflation pressures.
- The Federal Reserve is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, as expectations around its monetary policy have undergone significant changes since the start of the year. With persistent inflation and a robust labor market cited as key reasons, the Fed is poised to keep interest rates steady. The upcoming interest rate decision and the Fed’s dot plot release are pivotal, highlighting the Fed’s ongoing effort to control inflation.
Want to learn more about Helios Quantitative Research? Click Here to schedule a meeting with one of our representatives!