US Core CPI Rises 0.2%, Bucking Estimates for Bigger Rebound

Underlying US inflation rose in December by less than expected, a more confident signal of cooling price growth after shutdown-related distortions complicated the previous report.

The core consumer price index, which excludes the often volatile food and energy categories, increased 0.2% from November, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data out Tuesday. On an annual basis, it advanced 2.6%, matching a four-year low.