Cooling Inflation Boosts Investor Confidence Amid Fed Speculations

U.S. stock futures soared as cooling inflation data provided optimism to investors. February's Consumer Price Index rose below expectations, sparking hope for a more tempered Federal Reserve policy approach this year. The S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow E-minis surged on the promising economic indicators.

U.S. stock index futures rose significantly on Wednesday after favorable inflation data provided a much-needed reprieve for investors awaiting Federal Reserve policy signals. The Labor Department revealed that the Consumer Price Index increased by 2.8% annually in February, slightly less than the 2.9% predicted by economists surveyed by Reuters. Monthly figures showed a 0.2% rise, lower than the anticipated 0.3%.

The core Consumer Price Index, which excludes the often volatile food and energy prices, also recorded a modest 0.2% monthly increase, as opposed to the expected 0.3%. Annually, this core figure registered at 3.1%, just under the projected 3.2%. This news encouraged investors, as indicated by the climb in futures.

By 08:32 a.m. ET, significant stock indices showed impressive gains; the S&P 500 E-minis were up 79 points, or 1.42%, Nasdaq 100 E-minis increased by 330 points, or 1.7%, and the Dow E-minis rose 447 points, or 1.08%. This upbeat data provides the market with optimism regarding a more balanced approach by the Federal Reserve this year.

(With inputs from agencies.)