US Stock Futures Rise as CPI Eases Rate-Hike Fears

US equity futures edged higher on Thursday after a softer-than-expected consumer price index report eased concerns about further Federal Reserve interest-rate hikes. The S&P 500 futures gained 0.4%, while Nasdaq 100 futures rose 0.5%, as traders dialed back bets on aggressive tightening. The CPI data showed core inflation rising at a slower pace than forecast, reinforcing the view that the Fed may pause its rate-hiking cycle.

For energy traders, the inflation print carries dual implications. Lower rate expectations typically weaken the US dollar, which supports dollar-denominated commodities like crude oil by making them cheaper for foreign buyers. Meanwhile, a swift conclusion to renewed US military strikes on Iran removed a key geopolitical risk premium from oil markets. Brent crude futures held near $82 a barrel, reflecting the absence of supply disruption fears. Live fuel prices and charts on NowPrice show how these macro and geopolitical forces are shaping the energy complex in real time.

Looking ahead, traders will focus on the Fed's next policy meeting in July for any shift in forward guidance. Additional US economic data, including producer prices and retail sales due next week, will provide further clues on the inflation trajectory. On the geopolitical front, any escalation in Middle East tensions could quickly revive oil price volatility, but for now the market is pricing in a benign scenario.