CPI heats, Fed cut in focus, Oracle fuels rally

US inflation came in slightly hotter than expected in August, with headline CPI up 0.4% month over month and core CPI up 0.3%, keeping annual inflation at 2.9% headline and 3.1% core. The data underscores sticky price pressures in services and shelter, while food and apparel show tariff-driven gains. Still, markets expect the Fed to cut rates by 25 basis points next week as jobless claims hit a four-year high. Stocks continue to hover near records, with Oracle (ORCL) powering the AI trade after its blowout forecast. Klarna’s ([KLAR]) IPO delivered a 43% pop before easing, and blockchain lender Figure ([FIGR]) prices its debut at a $5.3B valuation. In trending tickers, Opendoor (OPEN) jumps on leadership changes, Kroger (KR) beats on food sales, and Centene (CNC) rallies on Medicare quality ratings.

Takeaways:

• CPI rises 0.4% in August; inflation still above Fed’s 2% target

• Fed expected to cut 25 bps next week despite sticky services prices

• Oracle leads AI-fueled rally; Klarna and Figure highlight IPO momentum

• Opendoor, Kroger, and Centene move on leadership, earnings, and health ratings

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