✨The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released its February 2026 data on March 11, 2026. Annual CPI growth was 2.4% – exactly the same as January and fully meeting economists' expectations. The seasonally adjusted monthly increase was 0.3%.

Core CPI (excluding food and energy) rose 2.5% annually and 0.2% monthly. Housing/shelter costs were the biggest driver of inflation, rising 0.2% monthly and 3.0% annually. Food rose 0.4% monthly and energy 0.6%; gasoline was still negative year-on-year (-5.6%). Significant increases were also noted in medical care and clothing.

✨The reaction on Wall Street after the data release was limited. Stock futures were mixed, and bond yields rose slightly. Analysts are calling this report "background noise"; the real focus is on the jump in oil prices and tensions in the Middle East (Iran). The March data (to be released on April 10th) is expected to push inflation upwards due to the oil effect.
✨Inflation is still above the Fed's 2% target and has remained virtually unchanged for 10-12 months. This situation may postpone expectations for interest rate cuts. However, global pressure on energy costs risks accelerating again in the second quarter of 2026. In the short term, data that "met expectations" provided relief to the markets, but caution should be exercised due to geopolitical risks.
✨Inflation is "under control" but fragile. The message for crypto and equity investors is clear – closely watch oil, Iran, and the Fed's next meeting. If stability continues, it's positive; if there's a surprise energy shock, volatility will increase!
#MarchCPIDataReleased