Economic Overview - The annual inflation rate decreased to 2.4% in January 2026, down from 2.7% in December, marking the lowest inflation rate since May 2025 [2] - Energy costs contributed to this decline, with gasoline prices falling by 3.2% over the month, although airline fares increased by 6.5% and shelter costs rose by 0.2% [3] Market Performance - The Dow Jones Industrial Average has gained 2.31% year-to-date, reflecting a positive outlook for the stock market and personal savings [4] - In contrast, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite has declined by 2.97% so far this year, while the S&P 500 is down 0.33% [4] Crime and Safety - Reports indicate a nearly 20% drop in homicides across major cities, reaching levels not seen in over a century, supporting claims of a significant reduction in crime [5]
Trump Says Inflation Is 'Way Down' After It Cools To 2.4%—Calls Markets 'Way Up' Despite Choppy Early 2026 Action - State Street SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (ARCA:SPY)
Benzinga·2026-02-17 07:31