Last week, UK inflation figures surprised on the upside, with the headline Consumer Price Index showing 4%, surpassing the consensus estimate of 3.8%. Core inflation also exceeded expectations at 5.1%, deviating from the forecasted 4.9%. Despite the increase, economists caution against overinterpreting this data, as inflation is projected to reach the Bank of England's (“BOE”) 2% target by the spring. Nevertheless, this data counters market complacency, suggesting the BOE might delay the pivot towards interest rate cuts until later in the year. The market is now largely pricing in the first interest rate cut in May, with the expectation of overall rate cuts in 2024 decreasing from 1.25% to 1.10%... Stocks featured: Dunelm Group, Flutter Entertainment and Ocado To find out more about the investment management services offered by Walker Crips, please visit our website: https://www.walkercrips.co.uk/ This podcast is intended to be Walker Crips Investment Management’s own commentary on markets. It is not investment research and should not be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy, sell or trade in any of the investments, sectors or asset classes mentioned. The value of any investment and the income arising from it is not guaranteed and can fall as well as rise, so that you may not get back the amount you originally invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Movements in exchange rates can have an adverse effect on the value, price or income of any non-sterling denominated investment. Nothing in this podcast constitutes advice to undertake a transaction, and if you require professional advice you should contact your financial adviser or your usual contact at Walker Crips. Walker Crips Investment Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is a member of the London Stock Exchange. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.