U.S. April CPI Expected to Rise Amid High Gas Prices

The U.S. April Consumer Price Index (CPI) is anticipated to increase by 0.6% month-on-month, continuing the strong upward trend observed since March. According to Jin10, gasoline prices have surged over 50% since the escalation of Middle East tensions at the end of February, with the average price exceeding $4.50 per gallon, consequently driving up the costs of goods and services such as airfare. The core CPI, which excludes food and energy, is also expected to see a slight acceleration. A survey by the University of Michigan indicates that consumer confidence has plummeted to a historic low, with household financial conditions and purchasing power under continuous pressure. Market research suggests that persistent inflation and only a slight slowdown in retail data reduce the urgency for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates in the short term. If the core CPI remains robust in April, it may prompt the Fed to maintain its hawkish stance for a longer period. Additionally, the Producer Price Index (PPI) for April, set to be released on Wednesday, is expected to rise by 0.5% month-on-month. Thursday's retail data will reveal the impact of high oil prices on consumer spending.