US CPI inflation rises to 3.2% in February vs. 3.1% expected

The US Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS) stated on Tuesday that inflation, as measured by the change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), increased to 3.2% on an annual basis in February from 3.1% in January. Annual Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy costs, rose 3.8% during the same period, falling short of the 3.9% gain seen in January but exceeding the market forecast of 3.7%.

On a monthly basis, the CPI and Core CPI both increased by 0.4%. Follow our live updates on the US CPI statistics and market reaction. “In February, both the shelter and petrol indexes climbed. Together, these two indexes generated more than sixty percent of the monthly increase in the index for all items.”

The US Dollar Index edged slightly higher with the immediate reaction and was last seen rising 0.08% on the day at 102.93.