01/12/2023
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) dipped 0.1% in the month of December, the first decline in the CPI since May 2020. In the 12 months through December, the CPI increased 6.5%, the smallest rise since October 2021 and follows a 7.1% advance in November. The Fed has raised its policy rate by 425 basis points from near zero to a 4.25%-4.50% range, the highest since late 2007.
If the decline in CPI is caused by a decrease in prices for necessities like food and housing, it may be seen as good for consumers who will have more disposable income. If the decline is caused by a decrease in demand for goods and services, it may indicate a weakening economy.
Inflation price changes in the last year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- CPI: +6.5%
- Food: +10.4%
- Electricity: 14.3%
- New Vehicles: 5.9%
- Used Cars: -8.8%
- Gas Utilities: +19.3%
- Motor Fuel: -0.9%