December inflation came in flat compared to November, with year-over-year consumer prices climbing 2.7%. This steady reading keeps the inflation narrative in focus as markets digest what it means for the Fed's next moves. Lower inflation readings typically support risk assets, while hotter prints can signal tighter monetary policy ahead. For crypto investors watching macro trends, this data point matters—it shapes expectations around interest rates and capital flows. The 2.7% figure sits in that middle ground where neither hard deflation nor aggressive disinflation is happening. Worth monitoring how this shapes the central bank's policy direction in coming months.