US stocks rise slightly as investors wait for inflation report

US stocks opened modestly higher on Monday as investors looked ahead to an important inflation reading later this week. The cautious move reflected a market that is still trying to gauge whether price pressures are easing enough to support the Federal Reserve’s next policy steps.

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq each posted small early gains, while traders kept positions relatively restrained before the consumer price index report. That data is widely watched because it can shift expectations for interest rates, borrowing costs, and the broader outlook for corporate earnings.

Markets have recently been sensitive to any signs that inflation could stay sticky, even as some analysts expect a slower pace of price growth. For now, the tone on Wall Street remained measured, with investors avoiding big bets until the numbers are released.

The latest trading pattern suggests that confidence is present, but limited. Until the inflation report lands, many market participants appear to be waiting for clearer evidence before making larger moves in either direction.