US producer inflation ticked up in November, painting a mixed picture for rate-cut expectations. The Producer Price Index climbed 0.2% month-on-month—right in line with forecasts—but the real story lies in the year-over-year acceleration: inflation jumped to 3.0% from 2.8% the previous month. The culprit? Delayed government shutdown data finally flowing into official statistics.

Energy was the standout headwind. Gasoline prices exploded 10.5% on a monthly basis, reflecting broader commodity volatility that's been reshaping the macro landscape. For crypto investors watching the inflation narrative closely, this uptick in producer prices matters—it signals persistent cost pressures that could influence central bank policy moves. When institutional players reassess their hedging strategies amid lingering inflation concerns, alternative assets often catch renewed attention.