Fed turns to Walmart data for real-time inflation signals

The Federal Reserve is exploring the use of Walmart's real-time sales data to gain a more immediate read on U.S. consumer inflation.

The move signals a shift toward high-frequency, granular metrics as policymakers seek to reduce reliance on lagging government statistics.

MarketWatch reported that the central bank is evaluating how the retailer's vast transaction network can provide near-instantaneous insights into price pressures across key consumer categories.

This development arrives as traders navigate a high-stakes week for macroeconomic data.

The Federal Reserve's latest meeting minutes are scheduled for release, offering fresh clues on the committee's internal debate over the pace of future rate adjustments.

Simultaneously, the Bureau of Labor Statistics will publish the latest consumer price index figures, a critical benchmark that will test whether inflation is cooling in line with the Fed's dual mandate.