Aug. CPI Down 0.1%; Core Rate Up 0.2%

The U.S. August consumer price index report was as expected, showing overall CPI down 0.1% and core up 0.2% as the effects of lower energy prices worked into the data.

The last time the overall CPI printed a drop was October 2006. However, over-the-year CPI is running 5.4% higher and over-the-year core is up 2.5% — the highest since February 2007 — both a bit elevated from prior readings as prior price increases work through.

CPI will soon moderate if energy prices continue to fall and world economies continue to slow. However, a Bureau of Labor Statistics economist said the energy outlook is muddled for September, given the most recent price spikes after hurricane season.

— Market News International

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