Inflation hits 4.2%, ETFs like SPLV, BALT, and CPSL offer ways to manage risk in volatile markets.

May's CPI report shows inflation at 4.2%, the highest in three years, posing ongoing risks for investors. Despite inflation, strong corporate earnings support continued stock market engagement, especially in the S&P 500. ETFs such as SPLV (low volatility), BALT (buffered downside risk), and CPSL (laddered protection) provide strategies to balance market upside with risk management. These ETFs help investors navigate inflationary pressures by offering downside protection while maintaining exposure to large-cap stocks.