Economic Growth Slows as Inflation Surges, Impacting Stock Futures

U.S. stock index futures declined as new data revealed a slowdown in economic growth and a rise in inflation. The GDP growth rate fell to 1.4% in the fourth quarter, with inflation outpacing expectations. Key indices showed downward trends in response to the unexpected economic indicators.

The dip in U.S. stock index futures on Friday was attributed to disappointing economic data, indicating slower growth and rising inflation.

The fourth-quarter GDP growth dwindled to a 1.4% annualized rate, substantially below the prior quarter's 4.4%, and shy of the anticipated 3% increase.

Simultaneously, inflation metrics, specifically the Personal Consumption Expenditure index, rose more than economists' predictions, further pressuring major stock indices.