October 2022 CPI: Game Changer or Head Fake?

October’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) had some encouraging news for investors, but others asked, “Is this a game changer or another head fake?”

While it’s a bit early to know the answer, it was great to see that inflation rose at a slower-than-expected rate in October. The financial markets welcomed the report as investors hoped the news might influence the Fed’s decision about future rate adjustments.

Welcomed Relief

Year-over-year change in the consumer price index

Fed Chair Powell knows that few financial events can be as devastating as high inflation over time – especially for those living on a fixed income. So, the Fed has been committed to raising short-term rates this year to slow the economy and, in turn, slow inflation.

So, if you held my feet to the fire, would I say the CPI report was a game changer or a head fake? Well, I’m 100% optimistic that the Fed is committed to managing inflation and the current CPI trend appears to be moving in a constructive direction.

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