November inflation readings are shaping up to stay above the Fed's 2% comfort zone, with the economic calendar finally picking up steam after the holiday lull. This matters because persistent inflation above target keeps rate-cut expectations on ice—meaning the Fed could hold rates steady longer than some traders anticipated. When inflation stays sticky, it typically weighs on risk assets including crypto. Watch the upcoming CPI and PCE data closely; these numbers will be key signals for whether the Fed maintains its hawkish stance or starts considering cuts into 2025.