Fed’s preferred inflation gauge slows annually in October

Investing.com — The Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation measure rose at slower rate on an annual basis in October compared to the prior month, in the latest sign that the central bank’s long-standing campaign of interest rate hikes may be working to corral price growth.

Last month’s (PCE) price index increased by 3.0% annually, decelerating from 3.4% in September. On a monthly basis, the stood at 0.0%, down from an uptick of 0.4% in the prior month. Economists expected readings of 3.0% year-on-year and 0.1% month-on-month.

Meanwhile, stripping out volatile items like food and fuel, the figure eased to 3.5% annually and 0.2% monthly. 

The data could help determine how Fed officials will calibrate interest rates in the coming months. The central bank is widely tipped to leave rates at a range of 5.25% to 5.50% at its meeting next month, although some policymakers have hinted that a pivot away from this unprecedentedly tight stance may be coming soon.

Earlier this week, Fed Governor Christopher Waller, a typically hawkish voice, suggested that “we could start lowering the policy rate” if inflation continues to slow for “several more months.” The comments bolstered expectations that the Fed may slash rates as soon as May next year.

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