Washington, United States
News Desk | Economics
The latest CPI report released Tuesday showed U.S. consumer prices rising at a steady pace, indicating that inflation remains persistent despite earlier signs of cooling, according to federal officials. Data published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed prices increased modestly on a monthly basis, keeping the annual inflation rate above the central bank’s long-term target.
According to the CPI report, higher shelter and services costs continued to be the primary drivers of overall price increases. Food prices also edged higher, while energy prices were mixed, reflecting recent fluctuations in fuel markets. The report noted that goods inflation remained relatively subdued compared with services.
Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, showed limited improvement, reinforcing concerns about underlying price pressures. The CPI report is closely watched by policymakers as a key measure of inflation trends affecting households, businesses, and financial markets.
The data arrive as the Federal Reserve weighs its next policy steps. Officials have repeatedly said they need sustained evidence that inflation is moving toward the 2 percent target before adjusting interest rates further. The CPI report is expected to play a central role in upcoming policy discussions.
Economists said the latest CPI report suggests inflation is no longer accelerating but remains sticky in areas tied to housing and labor-intensive services. These categories have proven slower to cool, even as supply-chain pressures and goods prices have eased.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics will release the next CPI report later this year, providing additional insight into whether inflation continues to stabilize or shows renewed momentum. The story is developing.
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