July Inflation Expected at 3.4%, Markets Await Federal Reserve Decision

US stock futures showed little movement as traders await July inflation data, which is projected to show a 3.4% year-on-year increase, down from 3.5% in June. Dow futures remained flat, while S&P 500 contracts rose 0.2% and Nasdaq 100 gained 0.6%. Traders are weighing a 50-50 chance of a rate hike by the Federal Reserve in September, a noticeable shift following a weaker-than-expected July jobs report. This upcoming inflation data could influence market direction significantly, impacting investor strategies around interest rates.