Bond-Market Bets on Deep Fed Cuts at Risk From Hot CPI Data

Group 1 - Bond traders are preparing for a significant US inflation report that could impact expectations for Federal Reserve interest-rate cuts starting this month and extending into 2026 [1][2] - Recent soft jobs data and tame producer-price figures have led traders to anticipate a quarter-point reduction at the Fed's upcoming meeting, with potential for two more cuts by year-end [1][3] - The market has shifted to favor a scenario where rates could be slashed below neutral levels to stimulate growth and avert a recession [1][2] Group 2 - There has been a notable change in trader sentiment, as they previously hesitated to bet on significant easing due to persistent inflation concerns [2] - The upcoming consumer-price index report is expected to show a core annual reading above the Fed's target, increasing scrutiny on inflation [2][3] - A slowing jobs market has led to expectations of a more aggressive rate-cutting trajectory, with economists now predicting a quarter-point cut at each of the remaining three meetings this year [3][4] Group 3 - A report indicated that producer prices unexpectedly fell in August, contributing to a drop in yields on two-year Treasuries, which are closely linked to Fed policy outlook [4] - The unexpected drop in producer prices did not hinder expectations for Fed easing, although components affecting personal consumption expenditures were less dovish [4]