US stocks rose (SPX +0.5%, NDX +0.6%) as oil eased (brent crude -2.6% to $105) ahead of today’s August CPI, seen as the key signal for a possible Fed hike next week (odds now 70%). Core CPI is expected +0.2% vs headline +0.4% on higher gasoline prices. 10 year treasury yields slipped to 4.94%. Oracle jumped 6.6% on a beat and raised guidance; most chip stocks were higher. Despite higher inflation risks, I am skeptical of a Fed rate hike next week, unless today’s Aug CPI comes in above expectations. Strong 2026 S&P earnings growth of +32% y/y is fueling the current bull market but an inverted equity risk premium and a more restrictive Fed could lead to short-term equity weakness.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Going forward my daily pre-market summary will only be available to Subscribers. Thanks for your continued interest and support.