U.S. February CPI matches forecasts, reinforcing expectations for no near-term rate cuts

U.S. February CPI data met forecasts, strengthening market expectations that the Federal Reserve will not cut interest rates in the near term. Bitcoin dropped 1.2% to $69,500 following the inflation report, reflecting broader market concerns about prolonged higher interest rates.

• →February CPI data aligned with market forecasts, reducing hopes for near-term Fed rate cuts
• →Bitcoin declined 1.2% to $69,500 following the inflation report
• →Higher-for-longer interest rate expectations continue to pressure risk assets including cryptocurrencies
• →Inflation data reinforces Fed's cautious approach to monetary policy easing