What's the opposite of inflation? Deflation, and that's exactly what happened in December, according to the latest consumer price index (CPI). Prices fell 0.1 percent last month, bringing the year-over-year rate to 6.5 percent, down from a peak of 9.1 percent last June.
Here are the highlights:
Energy contributed the biggest share to the decline, with prices falling 4.5 percent. Under that category, fuel oil saw the biggest drop, falling 16.6 percent.
After energy, automobiles saw the most deflation in December. The price of new vehicles fell 0.1 percent, and the price of used vehicles fell 2.5 percent.
Food prices, meanwhile, ticked up 0.3 percent. That's the smallest increase in the last six months. Shelter costs also jumped a sizable 0.8 percent, up from 0.6 percent in November.
The report comes as a debate rages over whether the U.S. economy can achieve a so-called landing after several large rate hikes from the Federal Reserve. While the central bank has signaled moderation, any shift in the inflation narrative could change its tone.
Markets expected and had priced in the CPI drop, however, so it's possible stocks won't move drastically in response to the data. Futures rose slightly after the release.
The Verge's Emma Roth joins Cheddar to discuss the iPhone 16, Apple Watch upgrades, all things Airpods and Apple Intelligence. But is it worth the hype? Watch!
The U.S. added 142,000 jobs in August, below expectations. The unemployment rate fell to 4.2%. The cooling job market raises chances for an interest rate cut.
The X and Starlink owner plays a game of chicken with Brazil's Supreme Court. Also: Disney v DirecTV, the future of steel, and that crazy ol' stock market!
Find out what Gen Z is saying about how money equates to happiness from Voya Financial and what they think they need to start saving for retirement. Watch!
