U.S. stock futures moved slightly higher on Monday, signaling a cautious start for Wall Street as investors prepared for fresh inflation data due later in the week. The market tone remained restrained, with traders looking for clues on whether price pressures are easing enough to support future policy moves.

The modest advance in futures suggested investors were not making large bets ahead of the readings. Inflation has remained a central concern for markets because it affects expectations for interest rates, corporate earnings, and consumer spending.

Analysts are watching the upcoming reports closely for signs that the economy is cooling without slipping into a sharper slowdown. Any unexpected increase in inflation could pressure equities, while a softer reading may strengthen hopes for a more favorable environment for risk assets.

For now, trading reflects a wait-and-see mood, with market participants balancing recent gains against uncertainty over the direction of prices and monetary policy.