'Inflation eases, stocks hit highs'

Wednesday had some welcome economic news, as "inflation eases, stocks hit new highs," The Wall Street Journal says on Thursday's front page. The lowest rise in core prices since 2021 fueled "hope for Fed rate cut this year." That would be good for builders, as "high interest rates, costs delay construction work" across the U.S., USA Today says. Housing costs and gas were the big drivers of what inflation there was last month, but at least in Southern California, the tight housing market is "gaining better supply," the Los Angeles Times says. Atlanta grew to above 500,000 residents, but the metro area "ranks among lowest inflation rates in large cities," giving residents "relief in rental costs and overall food prices," The Atlanta Journal-Constitution says.