Inflation unexpectedly surges, shattering hopes for Fed rate cuts & sending stocks down. Core inflation also exceeded expectations. No sector escapes losses, with real estate hit hardest.
Sharp increase in oil prices has led to outperformance of energy stocks, with WTI rising 20% this year. EIA forecasts $90/bbl in Q2 2024 and $3.60/gal in retail gasoline prices by 2024. 3 energy firms in top 10 S&P 500 performers YTD and many more set to report earnings in April 2024.
Stocks edged lower during midday trading on Tuesday as traders maintained a cautious stance in anticipation of the highly awaited Consumer Price Index (CPI) report scheduled for Wednesday, which could offer crucial insights into the potential course of actions by the Fed.