Prices rose at 2.6% annual rate
CNBC • • business
Key Points:
- Core U.S. consumer prices in December rose 0.2% monthly and 2.6% annually, both slightly below expectations, suggesting inflation may be moderating as the Federal Reserve considers its next interest rate moves.
- The headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 0.3% for the month and 2.7% annually, matching consensus estimates, with shelter costs, a major CPI component, rising 0.4% monthly and 3.2% annually.
- Despite some easing, inflation pressures persist in areas such as food, recreation, airfares, and medical care, while energy prices rose modestly; certain goods categories showed deflation or price declines.
- Market reactions included a
