What did US CPI January 2026 show?

US CPI January 2026 slowed to 2.4% year over year, below expectations. Core rose 0.3% month over month, while services inflation stayed firm. The mix supports a cautious Federal Reserve, not an aggressive cutting path. For equities, it reduces extreme inflation risk, but it also places more weight on earnings and quality factors.

How do Goolsbee’s comments affect Fed rate cuts?

Austan Goolsbee said more cuts require a clear move back toward 2% inflation. That message cooled hopes for fast Fed rate cuts after US CPI January 2026. Markets trimmed expectations for near‑term easing, keeping front‑end yields supported and encouraging a selective, quality‑focused equity stance.

How should Japan-based investors position now?

Consider partial currency hedges on U.S. equity exposure, as a patient Fed can support the dollar. Build positions near support levels instead of chasing rallies. Tilt toward profitable tech, healthcare, and dividend growth. Keep some cash to buy dips if services inflation stays firm and delays the easing timeline.

What are the key S&P 500 levels to watch?

We watch 6,894.498 as near resistance at the 50‑day, then 6,980.35. Support sits near 6,752.45 and the 200‑day at 6,498.3438. RSI at 57.52 and ADX at 12.18 point to mild momentum and a weak trend. Breaks with strong volume would improve conviction.

Global Market Insights

^GSPC Today, February 15: Goolsbee Tempers Cut Bets After CPI Slows to 2.4%

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 15, 2026February 15, 2026

US CPI January 2026 slowed to 2.4% year over year, beating forecasts and lifting hopes for softer inflation. At the same time, core rose 0.3% month over month and services inflation stayed firm, so the path to 2% is not assured. Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee signaled cuts depend on clear progress toward target, cooling aggressive bets. For Japanese investors, this mix drives the dollar, U.S. yields, and equity valuations. We break down the setup for ^GSPC and practical portfolio moves.