Overview

• The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is expected to show a year-over-year increase of 2.9% in February, down slightly from January's 3% rise.
• President Trump's new tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, along with threats of additional duties, are raising concerns about prolonged inflationary pressures.
• Economists predict limited progress toward the Federal Reserve's 2% inflation target due to the economic uncertainty created by the trade war.
• The stock market has declined, and consumer confidence has dropped, with recession fears growing as businesses and households adjust to higher costs.
• Federal Reserve officials are expected to hold interest rates steady next week, balancing inflation risks and potential economic slowdown.