Market Wide – CPI report on Consumer Price Index

Some years this is not as consequential as others.  But in 2023 this is huge.  If CPI comes in underneath what was forecast, the market will celebrate.  But if CPI comes in above what has been forecast, the market will sell off (give or take any “whisper-effect” where the market reacts to expected news a few days early).

For the year 2023, any sign that inflation is dropping will be taken as a good sign from the markets.  However, the market will have high expectations as the fed continues to raise interest rates.  If the interest rates happen to increase 3-4 times instead of the forecasted 2-3 times, a drop in inflation might not be as celebrated.  It is important to remember that “inflation” applies to all products and services, including things like wages.  If inflation has taken a hit, but it’s due to a drop in wages or a worsening jobs picture, that would have a negative effect.