In this brief market news segment, the host reports that U.S. inflation fell for the eighth consecutive month in February, reaching its lowest level since September 2021, yet it remains above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. February saw stronger‑than‑expected job creation, but wage growth slowed slightly, supporting the view that inflation pressures may ease. Retail sales declined after a January surge, indicating a slowdown in consumer spending amid high inflation. Single‑family homebuilding and building permits rebounded, suggesting stabilization in the housing market, and homebuilder confidence rose for the third month despite elevated construction costs. Mortgage‑rate‑sensitive purchase applications increased 7% last week, with expectations of a further rise following a recent rate cut. The segment ends with a sign‑off to the program “The Last Word.”
