Inflation rises 2.9% in December, in line with expectations
Published On Jan 15, 2025, 8:32 AM
In December 2024, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed a 2.9% year-over-year increase in inflation, which is the highest since July 2024 and aligns with economists' expectations. This report indicates persistent inflationary pressures, notably driven by higher energy costs, which accounted for over 40% of the overall increase. Monthly prices rose 0.4%, slightly exceeding expectations. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, was reported at 3.2% year-over-year. As a result, market analysts anticipate the Federal Reserve to maintain interest rates during their upcoming meeting, with a consensus that the Fed won't raise rates despite these inflation concerns. The stock market reacted positively to the CPI report, with the S&P 500 up 1.3%.
Stock Forecasts
SPY
Positive
Given the persistent inflation pressures and consumer spending impacts, stocks like the SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) are showing bullish signals as the market reacts positively to reduced interest rate hike expectations. The CPI data may lead to more investors favoring equities in a less aggressive rate environment.
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