
August PCE Data Shows Mixed Signals: Core Inflation Cools, Energy Prices Spike
The Commerce Department reported that the core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index rose 0.2% in August, holding steady at a 3% annual rate, while the overall PCE index increased 0.3% to 3.4% annually. This data suggests underlying inflation is cooling, but energy costs remain elevated due to the ongoing conflict with Iran. Consumer spending grew 0.6%, the fastest pace in over a year, though the savings rate fell to a four-year low of 4.1%. The Federal Reserve is now expected to hold interest rates steady at its late October meeting, as the cooler core inflation figures reduce pressure for another hike despite the broader economic strength indicated by revised GDP growth.









