CPI: Egg prices surge as US inflation picks up

Published On Jan 15, 2025, 8:50 AM

In December, US inflation rose to 2.9%, driven mainly by a surge in energy and food prices, particularly eggs which saw a 36% increase due to supply shortages from bird flu. Despite some price rises, core inflation was lower than expected at 3.2%, alleviating fears of aggressive Federal Reserve rate hikes. This mixed data has led to a rise in US share prices and a drop in bond yields, signaling market relief. Economists suggest that while the Fed is less likely to cut interest rates if the economy is growing, further monitoring of inflation trends is necessary. Key indicators show a tight relationship between inflation rates and potential Fed actions, and current data suggests cautious optimism in the market.

Stock Forecasts

SPY

Positive

Given the mixed signals from the inflation report, with core inflation remaining low and a potential stabilizing economy, investors could find opportunities in sectors benefitting from lower interest rates, such as technology or consumer discretionary. However, volatility may persist as the market reacts to upcoming economic data.

Related News

The Labor Department released the inflation report for December, which showed prices were up 2.9% from a year ago, in line with economists expectations and up from 2.7% in November.

Markets are getting worried about protectionism, the deportation of migrant workers, and a fresh bout of inflation.

Investors looked ahead to the release of December's CPI data and the start of the fourth-quarter earnings season.

KBE
SPY