Producer Price Index Climbs, Surpassing Estimates as Inflation Concerns Persist

A gauge of wholesale prices rose more than expected in January, with the producer price index increasing 0.4% for the month, surpassing the Dow Jones estimate. Core PPI, excluding food and energy, rose 0.3%, aligning with forecasts. Stock futures climbed while Treasury yields dropped as investors focused on report details suggesting easing inflation pressures. Some healthcare costs, domestic airfares, and brokerage service prices declined, easing inflation pressures in certain sectors. Wholesale prices have risen over the past year, remaining above the central bank's target, leading markets to push back expectations for the next interest rate cut.