inflation

Fed holds rates at 3.50-3.75% in Powell's final decision; hawkish stance erases 2026 rate cut expectations. Markets reprice sharply.

Costco ($COST) updates its legendary $1.50 hot dog combo for first time in 40 years, swapping soda for bottled water while maintaining price point.

Powell's Fed faces stagflation trap: collapsing labor market and Middle East energy shocks create impossible policy choice for incoming leadership.

Kevin Warsh, nominated Fed chairman, demands monetary policy overhaul to prevent future inflation crises, but faces structural obstacles to implementing lasting reform.

Fed expected to hold rates steady this week with Powell's final presser watched for inflation, yield, and geopolitical commentary before Warsh takes over.

Plug Power stock jumped 12.9% this week, with 2026 gains reaching 59%, boosted by U.S.-Iran ceasefire news and renewed meme stock momentum.

Defense stocks rally on military spending surge, but IMF warns 2.6% GDP deficit impact and fiscal strain could ultimately undermine the rearmament cycle sustaining valuations.

Five consumer staples stocks offer attractive yields up to 11%, but face headwinds from inflation, private-label competition, and GLP-1 drug adoption.

Sonoco shares fell after Q1 earnings miss on inflation. Flat EPS of $1.20 vs. $1.38 prior year amid energy cost pressures.

Nasdaq-100 gained 17.4% since March 30 despite Iran war concerns as tech investors shake off geopolitical fears and embrace broader market recovery.

Major U.S. banks beat Q1 earnings expectations for a ninth-to-eleventh consecutive quarter, yet analysts maintain cautious price targets citing geopolitical and inflation risks.

US retail sales jumped 1.7% in March 2026, the biggest monthly gain since January 2023, defying $4 gas price concerns and suggesting resilient consumer spending despite inflation pressures.

Economists warn Iran conflict inflation will persist beyond ceasefire as U.S. inflation hits 3.3%, with IMF raising 2026 outlook to 3.2% from 2.5%.

Wall Street's historic Iran ceasefire rally faces reality as persistent inflation and record valuations limit upside despite falling oil prices.

Fed's inflation forecast rises to 3.58%, driven by energy prices and Middle East tensions, threatening stock market rally and delaying interest rate cuts.

S&P 500 and Nasdaq hit records amid 3.3% inflation and historically elevated valuations, raising correction concerns.

Economists warn of rising recession risks from Middle East tensions and elevated oil prices, with Goldman Sachs estimating 30% recession probability within 12 months.

S&P 500 rebounds to record highs after Iran ceasefire and strong jobs data, yet elevated oil prices and 3-year high inflation readings pose risks to market rally.

Cleveland Fed President signals possible rate hikes if inflation stays above 2% target, threatening the AI-driven rally propped up by low rate expectations.

Inflation surge to 3.3% combined with rising private credit defaults pose systemic risk. Banks restrict fund access as borrowers face default pressure.