Stocks are slightly higher, but there has been a sense of hesitation.  That could change into the close, but I suspect buyers are hoping a few weak hands blink and bail.

Everything is up. 

Headline number was 104.7 from 104.8 in February, while the street was looking for 107.0. 

• Present 151.0 from 147.6
• Expectations 73.8 from 76.3 

Consumer do not expect much inflation relief over the next six months.

The Richmond Fed also a big miss -11.0 versus consensus -4.0.

The numbers are really demoralizing. 

This morning, I wondered if bad news would be good news. The market isn’t sure.