US equities remain in a low volatility state despite a variety of news reports hitting the wire today

US equities remain in a low volatility state despite a variety of news reports hitting the wire today. The Consumer Price Index nearly mirrored the PPI from yesterday. Inflation continues to be below the Fed's target, with the CPI's yearly advance at just 1.5%. Core inflation is a tiny bit higher at 1.7%, but still running at tepid levels. Meanwhile, jobless claims declined by 2,000 to 326,000. While, the number itself was small, the trend continues to look positive for the US economy. Year over year comparisons show the US is well ahead of last year on this front. In other news, Bernanke defending QE during a speech today and said it has been at least somewhat effective. He feels the unconventional stimulus program has helped the economy and there are no immediate signs of asset price bubbles. (VIEW LINK)