US CPI Today (Live) Updates

With the CPI report due today and the FOMC meeting just days away, traders are bracing for volatility while keeping a data-driven approach. Historically, CPI releases often mark local tops, while FOMC events tend to signal market bottoms. One trader notes a plan to ride a short-term pump following CPI exiting before a possible post-FOMC flush to re-enter at lower levels. While Bitcoin ($BTC) appears stronger in the short term, the broader view remains bullish on altcoins heading into the year’s close.

The crypto market has been losing momentum amid ongoing ETF-related selling pressure, with retail investors facing losses and showing reduced participation. As sentiment remains cautious, traders are eyeing today’s U.S. CPI data release, which is expected to bring heightened volatility. Before taking any new positions, it’s crucial to use proper stop-loss levels and set clear profit targets to navigate potential sharp price swings.

Crypto traders are positioning ahead of a volatile few weeks, with many — including our group — accumulating Bitcoin ($BTC) and select altcoins. Historically, CPI days often trigger a Friday pump, followed by sideways or downward movement in the days leading up to the FOMC meeting. The FOMC day itself tends to bring a relief pump, while the days after usually see a cooling-off period. To top it off, the anticipated Trump–Xi trade deal at month’s end could provide another bullish push across risk assets, adding more fuel to the market narrative.

Gold is showing strong bearish momentum after completing a short-term liquidity grab, with an entry zone between $4,070–$4,074 and a target near $3,955. The overall market bias remains bearish as traders await today’s U.S. CPI report, which is expected to bring high volatility. Prices may retest the entry zone before continuing lower, so patience and confirmation are key. If the CPI data comes in strong for the U.S. dollar, gold could extend its decline toward the $3,955 target zone.

Ethereum ($ETH) has major liquidity clusters above the $4,200 level, making it a prime candidate for a short squeeze. Today’s U.S. CPI data and next week’s FOMC meeting are key events that could move markets, while the expected U.S.-China trade deal as Trump meets Xi adds another potential catalyst. Market sentiment has shifted from bullish in early October to largely bearish now, which could ironically increase upward pressure if these events spark fresh buying in Ethereum. Traders should watch $ETH closely in the coming days.

The U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) for September will be released today at 8:30 a.m. ET, with market expectations at 3.1%, up from last month’s 2.9%. If CPI exceeds 3.1%, it could be bearish for markets, marking the highest inflation since June 2024. A CPI in line at 3.1% would still be somewhat bearish, as the 0.2% monthly increase (2.4% annualized) is above the Fed’s 2% target, potentially prompting a hawkish stance from Powell. On the other hand, a CPI below 3.1% would be ideal for risk-on assets, increasing the likelihood of rate cuts and driving liquidity into stocks, crypto, and other riskier investments, making tomorrow’s report a key market mover.