The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure of the level of inflation (or potentially deflation) in an economy. It is a standard gauge that measures general price increases (or decreases) for countries.
The index is used by governments, central banks and market participants as a benchmark to compare inflation in economies around the world.
The CPI is measured by calculating a representative “basket” of goods and services. The aggregate movement in the prices of the basket is used to calculate the broad changes in prices for the economy.
CPI data
The CPI tracks the changes in prices of a “basket” of goods and services. Amongst others, it includes:
- Food – the cost to buy food in the shops
- Energy –the cost of heating your home
- Transport - the cost of putting fuel in the car and public transport prices
- Housing & Household goods – the cost of rent, along with furniture and household appliances
- Apparel – changes to the cost of clothing and footwear
- Recreation – the cost of entertainment such as gym memberships and eating out
- Health & Education – costs for medical treatment and education services
According to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics, the CPI collects the pricing data of around 94,000 goods and services every month. “Core” CPI strips out some of the more volatile aspects such as food and energy costs.
Why CPI is important
CPI data is used to adjust retail prices and in the negotiation of salaries. It is also used by governments to determine the cost of living, for the calculation of social security and benefits.
Higher inflation expectations can generate an upward spiral in general price levels. When inflation is high, the value of money declines at a faster rate.
From the market’s perspective, this tier-one economic data has the potential to significantly move domestic bonds, currencies and indices. The US CPI also has a big impact on commodities.
Broad Impact
Higher inflation increases the potential for tighter monetary policy (central banks raising interest rates). If inflation is rising above the central bank’s target level, the bank will increase interest rates to “choke off” the price rises.
Higher interest rates tend to increase bond yields and increase demand for the domestic currency.
Trading the data
Higher than forecast CPI will be positive for the domestic currency. However, equities will tend to react negatively. The potential for higher interest rates is negative for corporates and consumer spending as it increases the cost of borrowing.
This material is for general information purposes only and is not intended as (and should not be considered to be) financial, investment or other advice on which reliance should be placed. INFINOX is not authorised to provide investment advice. No opinion given in the material constitutes a recommendation by INFINOX or the author that any particular investment, security, transaction or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person.
