CPI Reaction: August Inflation Print Surprises Markets

The August CPI print arrived hotter than expected on the headline, complicating the Federal Reserve's path forward as it approaches next week's FOMC decision. The data tells a nuanced story: a notable upside surprise in the headline figure masked by core inflation that tracked close to expectations.
Key Takeaways Headline surprise: August CPI rose 0.40% m/m, double the 0.2% consensus, with year-over-year inflation at 3.35% vs 2.9% expected. Core inline: Core CPI increased 0.29% m/m, matching expectations, suggesting underlying inflation remains contained. Energy driver: The headline surge appears driven by energy components, reversing earlier year-over-year comparables. Fed path: Markets had…
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