U.S. Consumer Prices Steady Amid Economic Uncertainty

U.S. consumer prices increased slightly less than anticipated in September, prompting the Federal Reserve to stay on course with another interest rate cut. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 0.3%, with inflation predicted to keep increasing gradually despite ongoing economic data disruptions from the government shutdown.

In September, U.S. consumer prices increased slightly less than economists had predicted, according to fresh data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 0.3% for the month, maintaining a year-on-year hike of 3.0%—an uptick less than the anticipated 3.1%.

The restrained price rise sets the stage for another interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve next week. While import tariff impacts are continuing to unfurl, businesses are grappling with inventory and cost issues, causing significant effects on hiring and price settings.

Amid a government shutdown and tight resources affecting data collection, concerns are mounting regarding the integrity of the October CPI report—casting doubt on economic forecasts and policy decisions during the closure.

(With inputs from agencies.)