The housing market data was hotter than expected, while an S&P Global survey showed business activity slowing to a nine-month low in January as prices rose. However, firms reported increased hiring, supporting the Federal Reserve’s cautious approach to monetary policy this year. The housing market data was hotter than expected, while an S&P Global survey showed business activity slowing to a nine-month low in January as prices rose. However, firms reported increased hiring, supporting the Federal Reserve’s cautious approach to monetary policy this year. Economic Times