U.S. Consumer prices rose less than expected in February, with the consumer price index (CPI) rising 0.2% month-on-month and 2.8% on an annual basis. According to a CNBC report, economists surveyed by Dow Jones expected headline CPI to come in at 0.

U.S. consumer prices increased moderately in February as higher shelter costs were partially offset by cheaper airline fares, giving the Federal Reserve room to keep interest rates unchanged next week while monitoring the economic impact of a trade war.

Wall Street's major averages trade mixed on Wednesday as retail inflation slowed more than expected in February along with Donald Trump's metal tariffs plans also taking effect today. Early on and the S&P 500 (SP500) was +0.

Inflation eased last month, but the data may offer less comfort to businesses, consumers and the Fed than it otherwise would as looming tariffs may keep prices rising.