US Inflation Rises to 3% Annual Rate in September

Recent data reveals that inflation in the U.S. rose again in September, with consumer prices increasing 0.3% for the month and reaching a 3% annual rate, marking the highest inflation since January. Although this uptick slightly exceeded expectations in some measures, core inflation (excluding food and energy) was somewhat lower than forecasted. The Bureau of Labor Statistics published these figures despite disruptions caused by the federal government shutdown beginning October 1, which has limited the availability of economic data and may delay future reporting. Prices for gasoline, energy, shelter, and several consumer goods increased, while costs for motor vehicle insurance and used cars declined. Experts caution that the full economic impact of the shutdown has yet to be felt, particularly as it may affect spending and labor market conditions in affected regions. President Donald Trump credited tariffs for the stock market's strength amidst these inflation trends, though the influence of tariffs on inflation appears to be gradual and ongoing.