The personal consumption expenditure price index for services excluding housing and energy rose at the fastest pace since March 2022, indicating high inflation in the services sector. This is a historically rare occurrence and is seen as more persistent than goods inflation. Fed officials are closely monitoring this indicator for future inflation trends.
Key Points
Super core inflation rose 0.6 percent in January
This level of increase is historically rare
Fed officials are closely monitoring this indicator
Pros
Provides insight into current inflation trends
Highlights the importance of monitoring service sector inflation
Cons
High inflation can lead to increased costs for consumers
May indicate challenges for monetary policy effectiveness