Bloomberg Economic Surprise Index Turns Negative Amid Sticky Inflation

The Bloomberg U.S. Economic Surprise Index moved below zero Monday after a series of U.S. economic releases came in weaker than analyst expectations, adding to concerns that persistent inflation is eroding consumer spending.

The shift comes as price pressures remain elevated. The personal consumption expenditures price index rose 3.4% year over year in August. The core measure, which excludes food and energy, increased 3.0% over the same period.

The latest inflation figures have kept attention on upcoming U.S. price data and their implications for financial markets. The U.S. inflation and jobs calendar includes the next major releases for the week of Oct. 12–16.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics is scheduled to publish September Consumer Price Index data Wednesday, Oct. 14, at 8:30 a.m. ET (12:30 p.m. UTC). September Producer Price Index data is due Thursday, Oct. 15, at the same time.

The reports will provide updated readings on prices paid by consumers and prices received by domestic producers before the Federal Reserve’s next meeting, scheduled for Oct. 27–28.