Inflation Eases to 2.5%, but Core Prices Remain Sticky

The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report shows that US inflation has continued to moderate, reaching its lowest annual rate since early 2021. In August, consumer prices rose 2.5% compared to the previous year, down from 2.9% in July. This deceleration in inflation, driven by falling gasoline and used car prices, aligns with economist expectations and brings the rate closer to the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. While core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, remained steady at 3.2% annually, the overall trend suggests that the Fed may consider rate cuts in the near future. However, the timing and extent of these cuts remain uncertain, as policymakers weigh the moderating inflation against other economic factors.