U.S. stock futures were down late Wednesday as hotter-than-expected inflation data and a sharp selloff in chip stocks pressured benchmark indexes. As of 10:57 p.m. EDT, Dow futures were down about 0.04%, while the S&P 500 futures fell 0.42% and the Nasdaq-100 futures declined 1.04%.

The final inflation report before the 2026 election — showing price increases and stagnant wages — spelled bad political news for the White House.

Surging fuel prices triggered by the war with Iran helped push inflation sharply higher in September, with the government’s consumer price index rising 0.6%, the fastest monthly growth rate since April,

TIPS are looking attractive but they aren't the only way to get inflation protection.

The Consumer Price Index for September will show how high energy costs and import demand are affecting the inflation rate.

U.S. consumer prices were up 3.7% while workers' paychecks rose 3% over the year in September, the Labor Department said.

September's CPI report shows inflation rising to 3.7%, driving up 10-year Treasury yields. See how energy costs and Fed rate forecasts impact mortgage rates in 2026.

Consumer prices in September jumped 3.7% from a year ago. The Social Security Administration said benefits will increase next year to help keep pace with the rising cost of living.

Bitcoin and crypto stocks fall as September inflation runs hotter than forecast, putting Fed rate hikes back in focus.