BlackRock Hits Record Assets as Markets Await Inflation Signal

Global markets advanced cautiously on Wednesday as investors awaited U.S. CPI data that could significantly impact monetary policy decisions. Wall Street futures rose 0.2-0.3%, while European markets gained strength, particularly in UK homebuilders following surprisingly cool British inflation data. The bond market saw some respite from recent selling pressure, with Treasury and German Bund yields retreating. BlackRock’s record $11.6 trillion in assets under management highlighted strong financial sector performance, while market expectations for Fed rate cuts have notably decreased, with traders now pricing in only 31.4 basis points of easing compared to 45 basis points a week ago. JPMorgan analysts note that the upcoming CPI report could be a crucial pivot point, potentially reigniting market rallies with a dovish print or pushing 10-year yields toward 5% if hawkish.