U.S. Consumer Prices See Mild Rise Amid Persistent Inflation Pressures

In August, U.S. consumer prices experienced a slight increase, largely driven by heightened housing and service costs. This has cast doubt on a half-point rate cut by the Federal Reserve next week. While some disinflationary trends persist, the labor market shows signs of cooling. Financial markets are now anticipating a smaller, quarter-point rate cut.

U.S. consumer prices saw a modest increase in August, predominantly due to rising costs in housing and other services. This development has stalled hopes for a half-point rate cut by the Federal Reserve next week.

Data from the Labor Department revealed a mixed inflation picture, following last week's report of a steady but cooling labor market. Despite fears, the unemployment rate dropped below the near three-year high touched in July.

Market sentiment now favors a quarter-point rate reduction, with probabilities of a 50 basis point cut sharply diminished. Economist Ben Ayers remarked that ongoing pressures in housing and service costs have likely solidified the Fed's decision for a smaller rate cut next week.

(With inputs from agencies.)