U.S. stock markets were poised for a lower opening on Friday following disappointing economic data that indicated a slower-than-expected growth rate for the fourth quarter. According to the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Economic Analysis, the gross domestic product (GDP) rose at an annualized rate of only 1.4 percent, significantly below the anticipated three percent. This slowdown was attributed in part to the disruptions caused by last year's record government shutdown and a decrease in consumer spending.

Additionally, inflation concerns have escalated as a separate report revealed that the core inflation rate measured by the Personal Consumption Expenditure index rose 0.4 percent in December, exceeding economists' predictions of a 0.3 percent increase. This uptick in inflation has raised speculation about the potential timing of future interest-rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, with traders increasingly betting that the central bank will implement its next cut in July.

The combination of slowing economic growth and rising inflation presents a complex backdrop for investors, as they weigh the risks of the economic outlook against potential monetary policy adjustments. Market reactions will likely be influenced further by forthcoming economic indicators and the Fed's response to these developments, shaping investor sentiment moving forward.