Topic
inflation
Commodities Burgers cost more this summer but farmers say they're not cashing in on rising prices
UK consumers face higher burger and bread prices this summer, a trend dubbed 'burgerflation,' but farmers and bakers report declining farmgate prices. CPI data shows beef up 9% YoY in May while farmers received 8% less in April; wheat prices fell 0.3% YoY. Lincolnshire cattle farmer Heather Oldfield and York baker Phil Clayton say they are not profiting.
Business Hindustan Unilever Announces More Price Increases Amid Persistent Inflation
Hindustan Unilever (HUL) will implement additional price increases in the coming quarters due to volatile commodity costs and persistent inflation, projected at 2-5% for the September quarter. The company reported a 10% revenue growth in Q1FY27 to Rs 17,341 crore, but net profit declined 3.2% to Rs 2,680 crore. CEO Priya Nair indicated a strategy of calibrated pricing and volume-led growth, while analysts noted margin stress in home and personal care categories.
Commodities Guernsey Energy Prices Rise by 19% in a Year - Report
Energy prices in Guernsey rose 19% over the year ending June 2026, the highest among all categories, pushing overall RPI inflation to 4.3%. Retired households saw a 5.2% increase in their cost of living, according to a new report.
Commodities Gold falls over 2%, silver drops nearly 4% as rising oil prices fuel inflation and rate concerns
Gold prices declined over 2% and silver fell nearly 4% as rising crude oil prices revived inflation worries, prompting expectations that central banks may maintain restrictive monetary policies. According to The Times of India, higher oil costs have reduced the appeal of non-yielding assets like precious metals amid heightened rate hike fears.
Commodities Indian egg prices crack new record as heat wave and feed costs squeeze supply
Egg prices in India's largest producing hub, Namakkal, have hit an all-time high of ₹6.80 per egg (farm-gate) as a prolonged summer reduces bird productivity and feed costs for maize and soybean meal surge. The National Egg Coordination Committee (NECC) raised procurement prices, and industry warns of sustained tight supplies.
Commodities Brent crude nears $100 as analysts warn of inflation and current account deficit risks for India
Brent crude oil approached $97 per barrel on July 23, 2026, with analysts warning of risks for India including higher inflation and a widening current account deficit. Geopolitical tensions in West Asia and OPEC+ supply discipline are key drivers, while some forecasters see prices remaining above $100.
Business UK Inflation Holds at 2.6% as Bank of England Weighs Rate Path Amid Fuel and Food Price Shifts
UK inflation declined to 2.6% in the year to June 2026, slightly below expectations, driven by cheaper fuel and falling food prices. The Bank of England, with its base rate at 3.75%, faces a delicate balance as inflation remains above the 2% target and is expected to rise again. Businesses should monitor rate decisions that affect borrowing costs and investment.
Business UK Inflation Drops to 2.6% in June as Fuel and Food Prices Ease
UK inflation fell to 2.6% in the year to June 2026, down from 2.8% in May, driven by lower fuel and food prices, according to the Office for National Statistics. The data offers some respite for businesses and consumers, though inflation remains elevated.
Business Record 7.4m UK households struggle to afford essentials as cost-of-living crisis deepens
A record 7.4 million low-income households in the UK are struggling to afford essentials such as food, heating and clothing, according to anti-poverty charity Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF). Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to cut VAT on electricity bills from October, but charities are calling for further measures.
Business Era of Cheap Borrowing May Be Over as World Enters 'New Macro Regime,' Moody's Warns
According to a Moody's Ratings report, the global economy has entered a new macro regime marked by structurally higher interest rates, sustained investment in AI and defence, and elevated geopolitical risks. Bond yields have risen to pre-crisis levels, and capital is flowing to policy-backed sectors. The outlook hinges on AI productivity gains and stable geopolitical conditions.
Commodities US fuel prices rise: Gasoline returns to $4 per gallon after Middle East flare-up
A report from Times of India indicates that US gasoline prices have risen to $4 per gallon after a Middle East flare-up. The headline highlights the renewed price level, though no further details on specific contracts or volumes were provided.
Business RBI Governor Malhotra Signals Patience on Inflation, Credit Growth Spurt
RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra signaled the central bank is unlikely to tighten policy in response to elevated inflation and strong credit growth, attributing price pressures to supply-side factors and noting no immediate distress in fast-growing loan segments. CPI is projected at about 5.1% this year, slightly above target but driven by specific sectors.
Commodities Gold and Silver Slide as Rising Yields and Oil Price Surge Weigh on Precious Metals
Gold and silver prices fell sharply, with spot gold dropping 2% to around $3,984/oz and silver 3.6% to $55.68/oz, as rising US Treasury yields and higher crude oil prices dampened investor appetite. MCX silver shows technical recovery potential toward Rs 227,000 with support at Rs 218,000. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East threaten oil routes, fueling inflation concerns and weighing on precious metals.
Logistics Trucking costs rose 3.4% per mile in 2025, outpacing inflation: ATRI report
The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) reported that average trucking operational costs rose to $2.336 per mile in 2025, a 3.4% increase from 2024, outpacing consumer inflation by 1.5 percentage points. Excluding fuel, costs increased 4.2% to $1.854 per mile. Driver wages rose at a sub-inflationary 2.5%, while benefits costs surged 6.6%.
Commodities Gold Silver Price Outlook: Middle East Conflict and Inflation Data to Drive Prices This Week
Precious metals are expected to remain under pressure this week as investors weigh the US-Iran conflict and upcoming inflation data from the US, India, and the euro area. MCX gold futures declined 2.65% to Rs 1.43 lakh per 10 grams, while silver tumbled 6.2%. Analysts note that a stronger US dollar and higher crude oil prices are weighing on sentiment.
Business US inflation climbs above 4% for first time in three years as consumer spending stays resilient
US inflation accelerated above 4% for the first time in three years, with the PCE price index rising 4.1% year-on-year in May. Consumer spending remained resilient, increasing 0.7% month-on-month, supported by larger tax refunds and a stock market rally, according to data from the Commerce Department and Reuters.
Business India's Transition from WPI to PPI: Strengthening Inflation Measurement for Better Policy Making
India is transitioning from the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) to a Producer Price Index (PPI), with the first release based on the 2022-23 base year. The PPI addresses WPI's shortcomings, including inclusion of indirect taxes and lack of service sector coverage, and will improve inflation measurement for policy making. Businesses using WPI for indexation and contracts have a five-year transition period to adjust.
Business IMF Chief Economist Warns AI Boom Could Fuel Inflation Through Supply and Demand Channels
International Monetary Fund Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas told Bloomberg that the artificial intelligence boom is generating inflationary pressures through both supply chain bottlenecks and a demand-side wealth effect. He pointed to recent price increases from Apple and Microsoft as evidence, and warned that the inflation story is just beginning, while also flagging energy and fiscal risks.
Iran's Inflation Surges to 88.6% as War Deepens Economic Crisis, Times of India Reports
According to a Times of India article, Iran's inflation rate has reached 88.6% as the country's war deepens the economic crisis. No further details are provided in the original report.
Business From Inflation to Mortgage Rates: Key Movements in the US Economy's Weekly Report Card
The US economy saw mixed signals this week: inflation accelerated to a three-year high, consumer spending slowed, but GDP growth beat expectations and layoffs remained low. Apple raised prices on Mac and iPad models due to AI-driven memory chip shortages. Mortgage rates ticked up slightly, while jobless claims fell below forecasts.
UK Household Energy Bills to Rise 13.5% as Wholesale Costs Driven by Iran Conflict
UK household energy bills will rise 13.5% from July 1, adding £221 to annual costs, driven by higher wholesale prices linked to the conflict in Iran. Ofgem's cap adjustment reflects these costs, with bills now 79% above pre-crisis levels.
East-West split could cost world $6.9 trillion, WEF warns leaders
The World Economic Forum warns that a full economic decoupling between East and West could cost $6.9 trillion in lost GDP. Current fragmentation already reduces growth by $213–$307 billion and adds 0.2–0.3 percentage points to inflation. Emerging markets face the greatest impact, while US output growth is forecast to be 0.4–0.6 percentage points lower than projected.
Trade Iran-US Interim Peace Deal May Support India's Growth But Inflation and Fiscal Risks Remain: RBI
The Reserve Bank of India, in its bi-annual Financial Stability Report, stated that the interim peace deal between Iran and the United States could support India's economic growth by normalising supply chains and easing geopolitical tensions. However, it warned that elevated oil and commodity prices, along with weaker global growth, could weigh on domestic expansion in 2026-27, while inflation and fiscal deficit pressures remain key concerns.
Business War-Driven Commodity Inflation Will Take Time to Normalise, Says HUL Chairman Nitin Paranjpe
Hindustan Unilever chairman Nitin Paranjpe told shareholders that commodity inflation from the West Asia conflict will persist. HUL has raised prices 2-5% to counter 8-10% cost inflation while leveraging cost efficiency programs. The company is also focusing on quick commerce, AI, and premiumisation under new CEO Priya Nair.
Business Food price surge inflates school holiday costs for families amid stalled government support
The cost of school holidays is rising for families on low incomes as food prices continue to climb, despite UK food inflation slowing. A new bill in Northern Ireland aims to restore holiday food payments for 90,000 children eligible for free school meals, after the previous scheme was axed in 2023.
Commodities Gold Heads for First Weekly Rise in Five on Easing Fed Rate-Hike Bets After Weak Jobs Data
Gold rose more than 1% on Friday, heading for its first weekly gain in five weeks, after softer-than-expected US jobs data lowered expectations for Federal Reserve interest rate hikes. Spot gold hit $4,177.31 per ounce, while US futures climbed to $4,190.70. Traders now see a 54% chance of a September rate hike, down from 66% before the data.
Technology Chipflation Hits Enterprise Hardware as AI Demand Drives Memory Prices Up 15x
Rising demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) for AI is causing a chip shortage, driving up prices of standard DRAM, NAND, and legacy microcontrollers. Prices of eMMC memory have increased 12 times, DDR memory 15 times, and smart TV prices have risen 30%. Industry leaders warn of further increases and supply constraints, affecting everything from smartphones to kitchen appliances. Enterprise technology buyers must prepare for higher component costs and potential delays.
Logistics Airfares Could Rise Up to 25% as Jet Fuel Costs Surge, McKinsey Warns
A McKinsey report warns that jet fuel costs could surge due to geopolitical disruptions and refinery constraints, potentially raising airfares by 20-25%. The jet fuel crack spread may average over $50 per barrel in 2026, up from historical levels of $20 or less. Supply constraints are emerging from major exporters in the Gulf and Asia, with countries like China, India and South Korea restricting fuel exports.
Commodities Gold Price Prediction Today: Why Is Gold Not Rising Much Despite Lower Oil Prices? June 23, 2026 Outlook
Gold prices showed mild gains on June 22-23, 2026, but the rally is capped by hawkish central bank signals of possible rate hikes, according to Praveen Singh of Mirae Asset ShareKhan. Oil prices continued to fall, with Brent down 3% and 38% from cycle highs, yet precious metals are not benefiting fully. Geopolitical developments—including US-Iran talks and a potential sanctions waiver for Iranian oil—add complexity to the outlook.
Business US gas dips below $4 again, yet household budgets remain under pressure
The US national average gas price dipped below $4 per gallon for the first time since the early weeks of the Middle East conflict, according to AAA. However, household budgets remain strained as inflation hits a three-year high and supply chain disruptions persist, with experts warning that higher prices for goods will continue through 2026.
Business Inflation Starting to Take Toll on Indian Consumers, P&G India CEO Warns of Headwinds
Procter & Gamble India CEO V Kumar said inflation is making consumers more disciplined in spending, projecting short-term headwinds. The company faces a 50% spike in plastic costs due to the West Asia war, and global parent P&G warned of a $1 billion post-tax hit to fiscal 2027 profit. Delayed monsoons add to risks, but the company remains positive on India's medium-term growth.
Commodities Iran War Disrupts Middle East Oil Supply, Driving Volatility in Crude and Refined Product Prices
The US-Israel war with Iran has disrupted Middle East oil production and transportation, leading to volatile wholesale crude prices. Petrol hit an Iran-war peak of 159.53p/litre in May, while diesel peaked at 191.54p/litre in April. RAC data shows current prices slightly lower, with further falls expected. The war's impact on oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz remains a key risk.
Business UK Inflation Holds at 2.8% in May, Defying Expectations of Rise to 3%
UK inflation held at 2.8% in the year to May, unchanged from April and above the Bank of England's 2% target, surprising economists who had forecast a rise to 3%. A sharp fall in food inflation and the reduction in the government's energy price cap counteracted upward pressure from the Middle East conflict, while the recent peace agreement between the US and Iran has lowered oil prices, potentially keeping inflation below worst-case scenarios. Core inflation edged up to 2.6%, and analysts warn that the next energy price cap increase in July could push prices higher.
Finance Kevin Warsh-led FOMC Keeps Rates Unchanged, Projects Hike by Year-End, Raises Inflation Forecast
The Federal Reserve, under new chair Kevin Warsh, kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged in the 3.5% to 3.75% range. The Summary of Economic Projections showed 18 of 19 officials expect at least one rate increase by year-end, while the central bank raised its inflation forecast, projecting PCE inflation at 3.6% by end-2026. Inflation currently stands at 4.2%, a three-year high, driven by fuel costs.
Business UK Inflation Holds at 2.8% in May, Beating Forecasts as Transport Costs Rise Fastest
UK inflation remained at 2.8% in the year to May 2026, matching the prior month and narrowly missing analyst expectations. The Office for National Statistics reported transport costs as the fastest-rising category, while food and non-alcoholic beverage prices fell slightly. Economists expect inflation to continue rising over the coming months due to the ongoing effects of the Iran war, with a projected peak between 3.5% and 4% in the second half of 2026.
Commodities Brent Drops Below $80/Barrel: Relief for Indian Consumers and Government Finances
Brent crude fell under $80 per barrel for the first time in three months, providing relief to Indian consumers and the government. Analysts from Crisil, HDFC Bank, and Bank of Baroda discuss implications for inflation, fiscal deficit, and oil marketing company losses.
Business India's Wholesale Inflation Rises for Eighth Month; New PPI Series Debuts
India's wholesale inflation rose for the eighth consecutive month to 9.7% in May, driven by high crude oil and manufactured product prices. The DPIIT released a new WPI series with an updated base year and also debuted the producer price index (PPI) at 9.4%.
Business India launches producer price index; wholesale inflation gauge to be phased out in five years
India on Monday launched its producer price index (PPI) for goods and services, replacing the wholesale price index (WPI) over five years. The new index, with a base year of 2022-23, covers 957 items and provides both output and input PPI data. Output PPI inflation stood at 9.4% in May 2026, in line with rising wholesale inflation.
Business India inflation likely rose to 4% in May as food, fuel costs climb
A Reuters poll of 38 economists forecasts India's consumer price inflation rose to 4.0% in May, up from 3.48% in April, driven by rising vegetable prices and four fuel price hikes by state-owned retailers. The Reserve Bank of India kept rates unchanged last week, but raised its inflation forecast for the fiscal year to 5.1%. Economists warn that wholesale price inflation, which accelerated to a 3-1/2-year high of 8.3% in April, will feed through to consumer prices gradually.
Business Dalal Street Outlook: Inflation, Fed Verdict, Crude Oil, and US-Iran Deal Hopes to Steer Indian Markets
Indian equity markets face a week shaped by domestic inflation data, the US Federal Reserve's interest rate decision, crude oil price movements, and progress on the proposed US-Iran agreement. Foreign portfolio investor outflows remain a pressure point, while a strong previous week saw the Sensex gain 1,284.61 points.
Commodities Gold Prices Slide to 6-Month Low Before Recovering on US-Iran Peace Talks, Strait of Hormuz Reopening Possible
Gold touched its lowest level in more than six months on Thursday before recovering to settle at $4,219.69, driven by US President Donald Trump's indication of a possible peace agreement with Iran that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz for shipping. The decline was fueled by high inflation stoking rate hike fears. Iran stated no final decision has been made on any agreement.
Business US-Iran Conflict Drives India's Wholesale Inflation to 9.68% in May as Fuel, Food, Power Costs Surge
India's Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation surged to 9.68% in May from 8.26% in April, reflecting the economic impact of the US-Iran conflict. Fuel, power, food, and manufactured goods prices all rose sharply. The Reserve Bank of India has raised its inflation forecast for the current financial year to 5.1%.
Business At 4.2%, US Inflation Posts Biggest Gain in Three Years, Fed Rate Path Affected
The US consumer price index increased 4.2% in the 12 months through May, the largest gain since April 2023, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics. Surging energy prices amid the West Asia conflict and renewed US-Iran tensions contributed to the rise, giving the Federal Reserve cover to keep interest rates unchanged into 2027. Wall Street indexes fell, with the S&P 500 tech index down 1.6%.
Trade Inflation Fuels Unconventional Consumer Behaviour in India with Stockpiling and Premium Home Spending
The article by Harish Bhat in The Hindu BusinessLine outlines seven counter-intuitive consumer responses to inflation in India, including accelerated stockpiling of essentials, a shift to larger packs, increased spending on premium home groceries, and a preference for domestic products. These trends have direct implications for import demand, packaging, and supply chain strategies.
Business US-Iran War Impact: India's Retail Inflation Rises Marginally to 3.93% in May, Food Inflation Edges Up to 4.78%
According to a Business Today report, India's retail inflation edged up to 3.93% in May 2026 from previous months, while food inflation rose to 4.78%. The report attributes the marginal rise to impacts from the US-Iran conflict, though no detailed trade or customs data was provided.
Supply Chain HUL, Colgate, Dabur, Marico Hike FMCG Prices 4-11% After Fuel Price Revision
A fresh round of price hikes by major FMCG companies, ranging from 4-11%, will make everyday essentials costlier. HUL, Colgate-Palmolive, Emami, Dabur, and Marico are increasing prices on soaps, detergents, toothpaste, and edible oils following the fuel price revision in mid-May, driven by higher crude prices, freight costs, and commodity inflation linked to the West Asia conflict.
Commodities International Gold Prices Drop as Rate Hike Fears on Higher Inflation Reduce Safe Haven Appeal
International gold prices dropped as rate hike fears on higher inflation reduced safe haven appeal, according to The Times of India. Physical demand remained subdued in India while China's central bank expanded gold holdings for a nineteenth straight month. Speculative investors increased net long exposure in gold by 14,409 contracts to 111,341 contracts during the week ended June 2.
Commodities Oil shock to inflation risk: How Middle East war is reshaping India's economic outlook
The Iran war is causing a severe oil shock for India, the world's third-largest oil importer. Benchmark crude surged to nearly $120/barrel, and natural gas prices rose 75%. The RBI now expects inflation to average 5.1% in FY27, up from 3.48% in April, and economic growth to slow to 6.6% from 7.7%. Supply disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz and higher fertiliser costs are compounding risks for key crops like wheat amid a potential El Nino.
Business Why the US economy keeps defying the odds: corporate investment and energy resilience drive outperformance
The US economy continues to grow at a steady pace despite global shocks such as trade tariffs, immigration changes, and Middle East conflict. Corporate capital expenditure remains high at 13.9% of GDP, productivity has risen, and energy independence from fracking has reduced vulnerability to oil price spikes. Cultural attitudes toward risk-taking and structural differences with Europe further explain the divergence.
Business Trump's Inflation Remarks Amid Economic Tensions
President Donald Trump expressed unexpected enthusiasm for rising inflation rates, citing energy costs linked to the Iran conflict. His administration claims to stabilize oil markets through operations in the Strait of Hormuz.
Business India's Retail Inflation Quickens to 3.93% in May, Stays Below RBI Target for 16
India's retail inflation accelerated to 3.93% in May, driven by higher food and fuel prices, marking the highest reading under the revamped CPI series. Despite the rise, inflation has stayed below the RBI's 4% target for 16 straight months, giving policymakers room to support growth. However, risks from rising energy costs and a below-normal monsoon could complicate the outlook.
Commodities Feed Makers Worry as Soyameal Prices Surge Over 40%
Soybean meal prices in India have surged over 40% in recent weeks to around ₹65-66 per kg, according to CLFMA. The price spike is putting pressure on feed manufacturers and farmers, especially in aquaculture where feed costs account for 50-60% of production. CLFMA urges government action to ensure supply and stabilize prices.
Commodities Gold Set for Weekly Loss as Inflation, Rate Hike Fears Persist
Gold prices declined on Friday, heading for a weekly loss as concerns over inflation and potential US Federal Reserve interest rate hikes pressured the market. Spot gold fell 0.5% to $4,191.17 per ounce, while US gold futures rose 2.4% to $4,212.70. The price action was driven by geopolitical headlines, including President Trump's decision to call off military strikes on Iran.
Commodities UK Pint Prices Surge 36% Amid Rising Costs
The price of a pint in UK pubs has increased by 36% since the last World Cup, driven by rising costs and taxes. Energy price hikes and increased national insurance contributions have significantly impacted pub operations.
US Inflation Hits Three-Year High at 4.2%
US inflation has surged to a three-year high of 4.2%, primarily due to rising energy costs. This increase raises the likelihood of the Federal Reserve raising interest rates.
Business Boston Church Increases Free Meals Amid Rising Living Costs
The Centenary Methodist Church in Boston, Lincolnshire, has increased its free meal services by 50% due to rising living costs. This initiative supports the local community struggling with inflation and high utility bills.
Commodities Gold and Silver Prices React to Global Tensions and Economic Data
Gold and silver prices are experiencing volatility due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and key economic data from the US and India. Analysts are closely monitoring these developments for future price movements.
Business India to Launch Producer Price Index on June 15
India will introduce the Producer Price Index (PPI) on June 15, marking a significant shift from the Wholesale Price Index (WPI). This transition aims to provide a more comprehensive measure of inflation by including services alongside goods.
Finance RBI MPC Meeting: Rate Decision Amid Inflation and Geopolitical Tensions
The Reserve Bank of India's MPC is expected to maintain the repo rate amid inflation concerns and geopolitical tensions. Economists predict potential rate hikes later in FY27.
Commodities Crude Oil Price Surge: Impact on Inflation and Transport Costs
Crude oil prices on the NYMEX have surged to $112 per barrel, impacting inflation and transport costs. Crisil warns of potential increases in CPI inflation by up to 48 basis points.