U.S. stock futures moved slightly higher on Friday, suggesting a cautious start for Wall Street as investors positioned themselves ahead of fresh economic releases. The focus was on the latest personal consumption expenditures report, a widely watched measure of inflation that can influence expectations for interest rates.

Market participants are looking to the data for clues about whether price pressures are continuing to cool or remain stubbornly elevated. That reading matters because it could shape the Federal Reserve’s next steps and affect sentiment across stocks, bonds and currencies.

The modest gains reflected a market that is still balancing optimism about economic resilience with concern that inflation may stay above policymakers’ comfort zone. Traders have been paying close attention to every new sign on growth and prices as they assess how long borrowing costs may remain restrictive.

While the move in futures was limited, the session underscored how dependent markets remain on incoming data. A stronger-than-expected inflation print could revive bets on tighter policy for longer, while a softer result may support hopes for more flexibility later in the year.