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Government Shutdown Delays Inflation Data, Rates Remain High

10/24/2025

47 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has delayed key economic data, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) releasing the September CPI after a three-week blackout, and the October CPI may be canceled.
The September CPI shows annual inflation at 3.0%, driven by higher gas prices, while core inflation remains at 3.0%.
Economists expect inflation to stay above 3% for the next year, tempering expectations for aggressive Federal Reserve rate cuts.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, lasting from October 1 to 17, stemmed from a budget impasse over the Affordable Care Act, leading to approximately 800,000 federal employees being furloughed. The shutdown cost the economy about $24 billion, highlighting the detrimental effects of political gridlock on economic stability, a challenge that resonates today as inflation remains a concern.

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Story summary

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has delayed key economic data, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) releasing the September CPI after a three-week blackout, and the October CPI may be canceled.
The September CPI shows annual inflation at 3.0%, driven by higher gas prices, while core inflation remains at 3.0%.
Economists expect inflation to stay above 3% for the next year, tempering expectations for aggressive Federal Reserve rate cuts.

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