Markets Rally Ahead of Peace Talks Despite Mixed Inflation Data

U.S. stocks are higher on Friday with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 set to finish the week up as traders weigh a hotter March CPI (headline +0.9%, core +0.2%) against a record-low April consumer sentiment reading, while inflation expectations tick higher. Investors are also eyeing direct U.S.-Iran peace talks and related geopolitical developments as notable catalysts.