CPI holds steady amid rate cut uncertainty

The February CPI remained steady at 2.4% year-over-year, matching January's figure. On a monthly basis, the CPI increased by 0.3%. Core CPI, excluding volatile food and energy prices, also remained unchanged at 2.5% year-over-year. The conflict in Iran is adding uncertainty to the Fed's policy decisions. Rising energy prices due to geopolitical tensions could further complicate the Fed's outlook, as these costs tend to directly impact consumer prices. Some economists believe the conflict and subsequent energy shock will delay the Fed's resumption of rate cuts. Market expectations for rate cuts are being pushed back amid stronger economic data and rising energy prices. Investors are increasingly concerned that higher energy prices linked to the conflict could push inflation higher. The market expects the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) to hold interest rates steady at the current target range of 3.5% to 3.75%. The Fed's next policy move remains uncertain. Some Fed officials suggest it's too soon to determine the conflict's impact on the U.S. economy. Others maintain that the Fed should continue with planned rate cuts to support the labor market.