Definition
A general rise in prices over time, so each dollar buys a little less.
The story
If a coffee costs $4 today and $4.12 a year from now, that's 3% inflation on your coffee. Your $4 didn't change; what it can buy did. A little inflation is normal. A lot of it eats into savings and paychecks.
Why markets watch it
It drives the Fed's rate decisions, and rates drive almost everything else.
IN HISTORICAL DATA
Latest Inflation (CPI): Wed, Oct 14, 2026 · Hotter
- Actual vs forecast
- Core +0.3% m/m vs +0.2%
- S&P 500
- -1.1%
- Nasdaq
- -1.9%
- Gold
- Spot -1.7% to $4086.06
History, not a prediction. Every row lists its sources.
All Inflation (CPI) →See it in the story
Connects to
Last seen in
We explain why it moves markets. What you do with it is your call. Commentary and education only. Not financial advice. All terms