Wall Street Awaits Inflation Data Amid Rate Cut Speculations

U.S. stock index futures showed slight gains as investors awaited key inflation data that could influence Federal Reserve policy. Traders anticipate a rate cut, with the Commerce Department's PCE Price Index being a crucial focus. Despite ongoing price pressures, the market remains optimistic about future rate reductions.

U.S. stock index futures indicated modest gains early on Friday as Wall Street eagerly awaited a critical inflation report expected to influence the Federal Reserve's upcoming decisions on interest rates.

The Commerce Department's Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, a preferred inflation measure, is set for release at 10 a.m. ET, marking the first major data since the government shutdown that stalled statistics updates. Economists predict an annual pace of 2.8%, slightly above August's rate.

As the Federal Reserve considers a potential rate cut amid persistent inflation and a strong labor market, investor sentiment is buoyant. Meanwhile, major indexes edged higher, with small-cap stocks leading gains after Warner Bros. Discovery shares skyrocketed on acquisition news.

(With inputs from agencies.)