New government data showed prices notching a monthly decline for the first time since April 2020, adding to an improving picture on inflation as the new year looms.
The Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index (PCE), one of two major readings on inflation, fell by 0.1% between October and November, the Bureau of Economic Analysis said Friday — the first monthly decline in more than 3 1/2 years.
Combined with other recent data showing disposable personal income and consumer sentiment rising, the United States’ economy appears to be heading into 2024 on strong footing even as it cools down. That has boosted expectations for a potential “soft landing” that reins in inflation without triggering mass layoffs or a recession.
Oh no, did the orphan crushing machine get a little tuckered out?
“Sir, we can only count all these dollars so fast!”
“Fine, cut back consumer prices. But only 0.1% mind you!” (wrings hands and chuckles while imagining all the folks choosing between healthcare and food)