US Consumer Inflation Hits 3.3% in March

Rising energy prices, spurred by Iran conflict, lifted U.S. CPI to 3.3% in March 2026 from 2.4% in Jan‑Feb.
Inflation pressure widened the sentiment gap between top‑ and bottom‑third income groups in Q1 2026, with lower‑income households hit hardest.
SNAP benefits fell YoY since Oct 2025 as tighter employment rules cut eligible 55‑65‑year‑old participants by 10% early 2026.
30‑year mortgage rates stayed above 6.2% YTD 2026, with 80% locked below 6% and 49% below 4%, dampening housing turnover.