Oil prices dropped to $90 a barrel after President Trump made comments about Iran. The decline eased energy costs as investors turned attention to fresh inflation data.
Stock indexes traded mixed as markets waited for the consumer price index report. The CPI reading will shape expectations for interest rate policy in the coming months.
Nvidia shares moved higher and were on course to recover part of their recent losses. The chipmaker remains a key bellwether for the broader technology sector.
Falling crude prices can lower fuel and shipping costs across the economy. Investors watch oil closely because energy swings feed directly into headline inflation.
The CPI report is expected to show whether price pressures are cooling. A softer reading could support stocks by easing pressure on the Federal Reserve.
Traders have been cautious ahead of the data, holding back on large bets. Volatility often rises around major inflation releases as positions adjust quickly.
Energy and technology sectors drew the most attention during the session. Nvidia’s rebound and cheaper oil gave the market two clear signals to follow.
The CPI release will likely set the tone for trading through the rest of the week. Investors will compare the figures against forecasts before adjusting their portfolios.
