The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that U.S. consumer prices rose 2.4% year-over-year in September 2024, slightly above expectations, while inflation for the month increased by 0.2%, matching August's rate. Core inflation, excluding food and energy, unexpectedly rose to 3.3% from 3.2%, raising concerns about persistent price pressures. This data complicates the Federal Reserve's plans for further interest rate cuts, as stronger job growth, with 254,000 jobs added in September, suggests the economy may not be cooling sufficiently. The Fed had recently implemented a significant 50 basis point cut, but analysts now predict a more modest reduction in the upcoming months. Overall, while the annual inflation rate has slowed, the uptick in core inflation indicates underlying challenges that may influence monetary policy decisions moving forward. Analysts remain divided on whether the Fed will pause in November or proceed with additional rate cuts.