Consumer price index updates, inflation rates, cost of living analysis, wage growth, and economic affordability trends affecting American households.
Allies of President Trump are raising alarm that energy inflation from the Iran war is overpowering his economic policies. Inflation passed 4 percent in May for the first time in three years, driven by a roughly 50 percent boost in oil prices due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan reported that consumers are switching to cheaper pet food brands due to rising inflation and higher gas prices. Monthly card spending rose 5% in May, with travel and dining still strong, but Moynihan warned that if consumer pessimism turns into action, it could hurt the economy.
This commentary argues that rising ice cream prices in the US, driven by supply chain shocks and premiumization, have turned a once-affordable treat into a luxury good. It uses viral outrage over high prices as a hook to critique broader economic trends affecting consumer goods.
Financial influencer Haley Sacks argues that the American dream is unattainable for millennials and Gen Z due to systemic issues like student debt, inflation, and stagnant wages. She contends that younger generations seek alternative paths to wealth, but warns against gambling as a solution, emphasizing that investing differs from gambling.
This commentary argues that current inflation drivers, including AI demand and geopolitical tensions, may lead to persistent inflation reminiscent of the 1970s. It suggests investors consider commodities and shorter-duration bonds as defensive allocations, while noting the lack of a consensus on the inflation outlook.
Rising berry prices are straining household budgets, especially for parents of toddlers. Grocery prices rose 2.7% year-over-year as of June 2026, with three in five families revising grocery lists to stay under budget. One mother reported spending $30 on berries that her children consumed in a single day.
A new poll shows 43% of registered voters now rank inflation among their top three concerns, a record high and up from 37% in March. 20% call it the single most important issue, up five points. Annual inflation hit 4.2% in May, driven by energy costs, threatening Republican midterm prospects.
This commentary argues that rising costs and debt are driving more young US adults to live with their parents as a financial strategy. It profiles individuals who used this arrangement to save money, pay off debt, or pursue new careers, suggesting the trend reflects broader economic challenges rather than personal failure.
This commentary argues that the Nasdaq is poised for a 35% decline due to inflationary pressures and a liquidity crunch from mega-IPOs. The author contends that capital inflows into new offerings like SpaceX will drain from major tech stocks, while rising inflation will further pressure growth equities.
This commentary argues that inflation data obscures the deeper affordability crisis in Colorado, particularly in housing, cars, and health insurance. It contends that even if inflation moderates, high costs remain unmanageable for many residents, and criticizes federal policies like tariffs and the Iran war for exacerbating the problem.