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Today’s Focus
U.S. Inflation Reaches 2.4% in February 2026, Keeping Pressure on Policy Outlook
Headline CPI rose 2.4% year over year in February 2026, remaining above policymakers’ preferred pace. Investors weigh implications for rates as geopolitical tensions in Iran add uncertainty to the inflation path.
2027 Social Security COLA Forecast Seen at 1.7%–2.8% as Energy Prices Lift Inflation Risks
New estimates peg the 2027 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment at 1.7% to 2.8%, with persistently high oil prices posing upside risk if inflation accelerates into the second half of 2026.
Stocks Slip, Treasury Yields Climb as Oil’s Advance Revives Inflation Jitters
Equities eased while Treasury yields rose, with oil extending gains as investors reassessed inflation risks and the Fed’s rate path.
U.S. to Release 172 Million Barrels From Strategic Petroleum Reserve Amid Iran Conflict
The White House said the U.S. will deploy 172 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to buffer global supply risks tied to the Iran conflict, a move with direct implications for oil prices, inflation, and financial markets.
IEA to Release Record 400 Million Barrels From Emergency Reserves as Hormuz Disruptions Intensify
The International Energy Agency approved a record drawdown of 400 million barrels from member countries’ emergency oil reserves to counter supply disruptions linked to the Iran war and reduced flows through the Strait of Hormuz.
Tech Giants Lean on Bond Markets to Finance AI and Cloud Buildouts
Major technology companies are raising fresh debt to accelerate AI and cloud investments, taking advantage of resilient credit markets despite uncertain interest rate paths.
U.S. Stocks Climb After Volatile Session as Oil Jumps on Middle East Tensions
U.S. stocks finished higher after a sharp intraday swing, with energy shares benefiting from a jump in oil prices. The reversal followed remarks by former President Donald Trump describing the Iran conflict as “very complete,” while traders weighed Fed policy, inflation, and earnings risks.
Fed approves application by Associated Banc-Corp, clearing key regulatory step
The Federal Reserve Board approved an application by Associated Banc-Corp, marking a notable regulatory milestone for the regional bank. The decision underscores the Fed’s standard review process on financial stability, competition, and community impact.