July PCE inflation index held at 3.7% annual pace, slightly hotter than expected

Updated on: August 26, 2026 / 9:17 AM EDT / CBS News

July PCE inflation index held at 3.7% annual pace, slightly hotter than expected

TL;DR

  • July's PCE inflation held steady at a 3.7% annual pace, exceeding economists' predictions.
  • Core PCE, excluding food and energy, also rose slightly higher than expected.
  • Global conflicts, like the war in Iran, are contributing to higher oil and gas prices, impacting consumer budgets.
  • Consumer spending on goods decreased, while spending on services increased.
  • The U.S. economy expanded at a 1.5% rate in the second quarter.
  • Stubborn inflation presents a challenge for the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions.
  • Investors are anticipating Fed Chair Kevin Warsh's speech for clues on future monetary policy.