Inflation

Markets

Mortgage rates climb to seven-month high, testing spring housing demand

U.S. mortgage rates have risen to their highest level since September, following a jump in bond yields amid geopolitical tensions. The move tightens affordability just as the spring housing market gets underway.

Mar 22, 2026 | 2022

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Markets

Oil Security Risks Narrow U.S. Options to Tame Prices as Strait of Hormuz Tensions Rise

With Iran-related threats to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz raising supply risks, traditional U.S. tools to cool oil prices-like strategic reserve releases-offer limited relief. Markets are watching maritime security, OPEC+ policy, and freight costs to gauge inflation and rate implications.

Mar 18, 2026 | 1653

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Markets

U.S. Grants Temporary Leeway to Buy Russian Oil Already at Sea to Steady Energy Markets

Washington has issued a time-limited authorization allowing purchases of Russian crude already in transit, aiming to ease near-term supply tightness and stabilize energy markets without lifting broader sanctions.

Mar 18, 2026 | 1544

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Markets

Fertilizer Route Disruptions Near Iran Put Fresh Pressure on Global Food Prices

Tensions near the Strait of Hormuz are interrupting fertilizer shipments and raising the risk of higher food inflation as growers face tighter supplies and elevated costs.

Mar 15, 2026 | 2163

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Markets

U.S. Inflation Reaches 2.4% in February 2026, Keeping Pressure on Policy Outlook

Headline CPI rose 2.4% year over year in February 2026, remaining above policymakers’ preferred pace. Investors weigh implications for rates as geopolitical tensions in Iran add uncertainty to the inflation path.

Mar 15, 2026 | 1704

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Markets

2027 Social Security COLA Forecast Seen at 1.7%–2.8% as Energy Prices Lift Inflation Risks

New estimates peg the 2027 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment at 1.7% to 2.8%, with persistently high oil prices posing upside risk if inflation accelerates into the second half of 2026.

Mar 15, 2026 | 1851

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Markets

Stocks Slip, Treasury Yields Climb as Oil’s Advance Revives Inflation Jitters

Equities eased while Treasury yields rose, with oil extending gains as investors reassessed inflation risks and the Fed’s rate path.

Mar 15, 2026 | 1602

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Markets

U.S. to Release 172 Million Barrels From Strategic Petroleum Reserve Amid Iran Conflict

The White House said the U.S. will deploy 172 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to buffer global supply risks tied to the Iran conflict, a move with direct implications for oil prices, inflation, and financial markets.

Mar 15, 2026 | 1655

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Markets

IEA to Release Record 400 Million Barrels From Emergency Reserves as Hormuz Disruptions Intensify

The International Energy Agency approved a record drawdown of 400 million barrels from member countries’ emergency oil reserves to counter supply disruptions linked to the Iran war and reduced flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

Mar 15, 2026 | 1676

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