Inflation Eases as Core Index Hits Lowest Level Since 2021

The consumer-price index, a gauge for goods and service costs across the U.S. economy, rose 3.4% in April from a year ago, the Labor Department said Wednesday. 


 
Retail sales were flat in April, falling below economists' expectations

Retail sales were unchanged in April, the Commerce Department said Wednesday. Sales at gasoline stations offset weakness in autos and several other categories. 


 
Stock Futures Edge Up After Inflation Data

Stock futures were little changed as investors await April's consumer-price index data. 


 
Mortgage rates fall for second week in a row, giving a 'small boost' to refinances

Mortgage applications rose 0.5% in the last week, the Mortgage Bankers Association said. The average rate for a 30-year mortgage is 7.08%. 


 
Eurozone Inflation Set to Ease More Rapidly, EU Says

The eurozone's annual rate of inflation is set to fall faster than previously expected as economic growth remains anemic, and hit the European Central Bank's target earlier in 2025. 


 
IEA Lowers 2024 Oil-Demand Growth Forecast on Slow Start of the Year

The International Energy Agency cut its forecast for oil-demand growth this year as subdued industrial activity and mild winter temperatures reduced gasoil consumption across some of the world's largest economies, particularly in Europe. 


 
AI Is Electrifying These Power Producers' Shares

The outlook for higher electricity demand is lifting share prices to new heights at Vistra, NRG and Constellation Energy. 


 
April Retail Sales Disappoint. Consumers Are Pulling Back.

Retail sales are unchanged in April, while economists had forecast an increase of 0.4%. 


 
Why the Hybrid Boom Is Funding EVs

Japan's carmakers have been churning out record profits thanks to the weak yen and strong hybrid sales, creating a war chest for electric-vehicle investments. 


 
Is Roaring Kitty the Internet's Warren Buffett?

GameStop's ludicrously high valuations before this week's rally suggest that online subcultures might have a permanent influence on the market.


(END) Dow Jones Newswires

05-15-24 0915ET