BY: MARSHALL BARTLETT
Senior Vice President / Portfolio Manager
(615) 591-0611 mbartlett@argenttrust.com
Announced this morning, the Consumer Price Index, a measure of inflation, increased 0.2% for the month of April and has increased 2.5% on an annual basis. The underlying data shows energy prices increased during the month, but were offset somewhat by used cars and trucks. The core rate, excluding food and energy prices, increased just 0.1% for April and has increased 2.1% on an annual basis.
Based on these figures, inflationary pressures remain in check and tight labor markets have not yet pushed the core rate much higher than the 2% level, typically eyed by the Federal Reserve. They likely remain on track for their planned, measured pace of interest rate increases in the months ahead. In all, equity futures are higher this morning heading into the market open.
This information has been prepared by Argent Trust to highlight issues which may be of interest to the recipient and is not intended as legal, investment or tax advice. You are urged to seek legal, tax and accounting counsel for your particular situation before acting on topics discussed here. At Argent Trust, we assist our clients in managing and enhancing their wealth. Please call us at 615.591.0044 with questions or to schedule a meeting. © 2018 Argent Financial.
