US consumer prices stayed high in August as Iran war pushed energy costs up
U.S. consumer prices stayed high in August, with the annual inflation rate unchanged at 3.4%. Higher energy costs, spurred by the Iran conflict, lifted the headline figure. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, rose to 2.4%, showing persistent price pressures. The Labor Department said the CPI increased 0.6% from July. This month‑over‑month gain suggests inflation remains above the Federal Reserve's 2% goal.