Markets brace for key U.S. CPI release as Fed pause hopes rise

Traders worldwide await the U.S. CPI inflation data due Friday, with consensus forecasting a 0.3% month-on-month core increase, holding at 3.1% year-on-year. Economists suggest a reading within range may bolster confidence in a Federal Reserve rate pause through December. Equity futures stayed steady while gold edged higher amid risk recalibration. Analysts warn any upside surprise could reignite volatility and delay policy easing expectations into early 2026.