US September Inflation Below Expectations: Details

Evaluation of the US Consumer Price Index

The US Department of Labor has released the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for September, which was delayed due to the federal government shutdown. In September, consumer prices increased by only 3% compared to the same period last year. This rate was below the 3.1% expected by economists, providing unexpected signals to the markets.

Monthly Change and Core Inflation

In August, the annual inflation rate was recorded at 2.9%. In September, prices increased by 0.3% compared to the previous month, while the market expectation was for an increase of 0.4%. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy prices, showed a 0.2% increase on a monthly basis, falling short of the 0.3% consensus estimate. On an annual basis, core consumer prices increased by 3%, the same level that was expected in September, after being recorded at 3.1% in August.

Changes in Energy and Food Prices

In September, energy prices rose by 1.5%, while the increase in food prices was 0.2%. These figures play a critical role in shaping inflation perception in the markets and the trend of consumer spending.

Effects on Interest Rate Decisions

The inflation report is an important evaluation factor for interest rate policy decisions at the Federal Open Market Committee meetings to be held on October 28-29. Market analysts will closely monitor the effects of the lower-than-expected inflation data on the central bank's interest rates.