CPI Inflation Rate Slides, But Core Prices Are Sticky; S&P 500 Futures Rise

The CPI inflation rate fell faster than expected in December. However, core inflation, which strips out food and energy, slowed in line with forecasts. S&P 500 futures rose moderately in early Thursday stock market action after release of the consumer price index.

The CPI inflation rate eased to 6.5% from 7.1% the prior month vs. Wall Street expectations of 6.6%. The consumer price index was fell 0.1% on the month vs. the expected flat reading.

The core CPI rose 0.3% vs. November levels, as expected. The annual core inflation rate eased to...