US consumer inflation rises more than expected in September

US consumer inflation unexpectedly jumped in September, according to government data released on Wednesday. The consumer price index (CPI) rose 0.6% month-on-month, surpassing the 0.4% increase in August. This growth was driven by surging energy costs, particularly gasoline, which jumped 9.1% month-over-month, and energy prices in general, which increased by 3.7% year-on-year. Analysts had expected a 0.6% rise, making the actual figure more than anticipated.

The inflation surge comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran, which have led to a spike in energy prices. The conflict has resulted in gasoline prices rising over 45% since the Middle East war, reaching an average of $4.33 per gallon. Diesel prices have also surged by 67.7%, exacerbating transportation costs and potentially affecting consumers further.

Economists warn that these rising costs could continue to impact households as the US economy remains robust, bolstered by spending in the artificial intelligence sector and labor demand. Core CPI, excluding food and energy prices, increased by 2.6% from a year ago. However, the Federal Reserve is not expected to raise interest rates at its upcoming meeting on October 27-28, as several policymakers suggest waiting for two consecutive increases.

Instead, they favor a "slow and steady" approach to policy tightening. Industries sensitive to interest rates, such as housing, are already struggling with higher borrowing costs.