Inflation Seen Accelerating as Tariffs Start to Bite
Investors are bracing for a noticeable uptick in U.S. inflation as the June Consumer Price Index (CPI) report is expected to reflect the first significant effects of President Trump’s expanding tariffs. The data, set for release Tuesday morning, will offer clues on whether import duties are beginning to impact consumers and shape the Federal Reserve’s monetary path.
According to forecasts, headline CPI is expected to rise 2.6% year-over-year in June, up from May’s 2.4% reading. On a monthly basis, prices are projected to increase 0.3%, marking a clear acceleration from the 0.1% recorded in May. Stripping out food and energy, core CPI is also seen rising 2.9% annually and 0.3% monthly—both up from the previous month.
Tariffs Fuel Core Price Pressures
The increase in core inflation comes amid a reversal in previously cooling sectors like automobiles and apparel, which economists had viewed as early indicators of tariff impacts. In June, those categories are now expected to contribute positively to overall price gains.
This shift coincides with the latest wave of tariff announcements from the White House. New letters were issued to over 20 countries outlining tariffs ranging from 20% to 50%, including a 35% duty on Canadian products and 30% on imports from Mexico and the European Union. Broader proposals of 15% to 20% on most global partners remain in play, adding volatility to global trade relations.
Economists warn that stockpiles built up before tariff hikes are dwindling, forcing companies to start passing costs along to consumers. Wells Fargo’s Sarah House noted that while the inflation uptick may not yet be dramatic enough to trigger Fed intervention, the next few months could be pivotal in assessing the full economic impact.
Economists Forecast Modest but Persistent Price Increases
Bank of America analysts expect core inflation to be driven by used car prices, healthcare services, and shelter costs. Their forecast sees broad-based price increases linked to tariffs spreading across both goods and services.
Goldman Sachs echoed the view, projecting continued monthly gains in core CPI of 0.3% to 0.4% in the near term. The firm expects stronger inflation in goods but only modest increases in services. However, it anticipates price pressures may taper off later this year as labor markets soften and housing inflation levels out.
Despite rising inflation, the Federal Reserve is still expected to keep rates steady at its upcoming meeting. Analysts agree that policymakers will likely wait for more clarity before responding, especially as the inflation picture remains complex due to shifting tariffs and global trade uncertainty.
Consumer Impact and Market Outlook
As inflation picks up, consumers may soon feel higher prices across everyday categories. Produce, apparel, and imported electronics are especially vulnerable, as earlier tariff rounds begin filtering through the supply chain. With medical costs and travel services also on the rise, households face mounting pressure heading into the second half of the year.
While central bankers monitor the situation closely, investors are focused on how the data may influence rate policy, consumer sentiment, and equity markets. Whether the inflation bump becomes a sustained trend or levels off by year-end remains a central question for both markets and households alike.
