Steady CPI Figures Bolster Stock Futures

U.S. stock index futures gained as the consumer price index (CPI) rose by 0.2% monthly and 2.6% annually, meeting economists' expectations and indicating no surprises for Federal Reserve policy. This data helped lift Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq 100 futures slightly as investors breathed a sigh of relief.

In a positive turn for U.S. stock index futures, Wednesday's consumer price index (CPI) figures aligned with economists' expectations, easing market tensions about the Federal Reserve's monetary policy trajectory.

The Labor Department reported a 0.2% increase in the CPI for October, matching predictions from a Reuters poll. Annual growth stood at 2.6%, echoing analysts' anticipations.

Following the report, Dow E-minis climbed by 20 points, or 0.05%, S&P 500 E-minis grew by 5.75 points, or 0.1%, and Nasdaq 100 E-minis increased by 9 points, or 0.02%, reflecting cautious optimism among investors.

(With inputs from agencies.)