US inflation slows in February, falling below expectations

The US Consumer Price Index (CPI) for February showed a slower-than-expected rise in consumer prices, easing concerns about persistent inflation.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the CPI increased by 2.8% year-over-year, down from January’s 3% rise and below economists’ forecast of 2.9%.

On a monthly basis, prices rose 0.2%, a notable slowdown from January’s 0.5% increase and below the estimated 0.3%.

Core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy costs, also saw a moderation, rising 0.2% month-over-month compared to January’s 0.4% increase. Annually, core prices increased by 3.1%, down from 3.3% in January.

The data suggests a cooling in inflationary pressures, though concerns about the broader health of the US economy remain.