AI Data Insight
The US PCE price index for the first quarter of 2026 rose to 129.609, significantly higher than the previous quarter's 128.211, translating to an annualized quarterly increase of 4.4%, which is higher than market expectations. Accompanied by Q1 GDP growth falling short of expectations, the dual pressure of inflation and an economic slowdown has exacerbated market concerns about stagflation, and may force the Federal Reserve to delay its rate cut timeline.