Stock futures are rising ahead of the release of the consumer-price index data for December, scheduled for 8:30 a.m. ET. The S&P 500 closed Wednesday just 0.3% below its previous record high in January 2022. Economists predict a slight increase in the inflation gauge, but underlying price pressures are expected to remain stable. The possibility of lower interest rates in the near future depends on inflation data. Bitcoin is maintaining its value above $46,000. The SEC’s approval for U.S. exchange-traded funds linked to cryptocurrencies may impact the market. Tech stocks continue to lead gains, while Treasury yields fell below 4%. Overseas markets, including Japan and Hong Kong, reported gains. Oil prices are climbing, with Brent futures approaching $78 a barrel. Earnings season will begin on Friday with several major companies reporting, including UnitedHealth, JPMorgan Chase, and Bank of America.
