U.S. Producer Prices Rise: Indicators Suggest Stalled Inflation Progress

U.S. producer prices increased in October due to higher costs in services like portfolio management and airline fares, indicating a stall in inflation reduction efforts. The Federal Reserve may opt for fewer rate cuts, following mixed economic signals including reduced jobless claims and stable consumer inflation.

U.S. producer prices experienced an uptick in October, driven by rising costs in services, such as portfolio management and airline fares, suggesting that efforts to curb inflation may be stalling. The report indicated that the Fed might consider fewer rate cuts in light of resilient economic data.

The Labor Department's latest statistics revealed a 0.2% increase in the producer price index (PPI), aligning with economists' forecasts. This follows a modest increase in September and presents a challenging scenario for the Fed's inflation target of 2%.

Jobless claims dropped to a six-month low, hinting at an unforeseen slowdown in job growth, while tariffs on imports are anticipated under President-elect Donald Trump's administration. These factors may impact the Fed's decision on interest rates in the upcoming December meeting.

(With inputs from agencies.)