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What can we learn from CPI?

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is an indicator used to measure the fluctuations in the prices of goods and services that consumers regularly purchase. It is a very important economic indicator to understand the trends of inflation and deflation. The following details explain CPI for beginners.

1. Basic definition of CPI

CPI shows the average prices of a consumer's shopping basket over a specific period. It covers goods and services consumed by general households, such as food, clothing, residence, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment.

2. The purpose of CPI

The main purpose is to measure the inflation rate. The inflation rate indicates the rate of price increase over a certain period and is an important indicator for evaluating the overall health of the economy.

3. Calculation method of CPI

CPI is calculated by measuring the current prices compared to the prices in the base year. The CPI of the base year is set as 100, and price changes are indexed against it.

4. Core CPI and Total CPI

Total CPI is an index that includes all consumer prices.
Core CPI is an index that excludes prices of energy and food. Due to their volatile price changes, core CPI is used to more accurately capture the underlying inflation trend.

5. Utilization of CPI

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is used for wage negotiations, adjustments to pensions, social security benefits, and drafting economic policies. For example, the government may use the CPI as a reference to adjust interest rates and revise the tax system.

6. Impact of CPI

When the CPI is high, it generally indicates that inflation is occurring, resulting in increased living costs. On the other hand, if deflation occurs, the CPI decreases, posing a risk of economic growth stagnation.

7. Frequency of CPI Measurement

In the USA, the CPI is announced monthly. This allows for real-time understanding of the latest inflation trends.

8. CPI and Interest Rates

The Federal Reserve Bank (FRB) uses the CPI as a reference to make decisions on interest rate policies. When inflation rises, the central bank may raise interest rates to curb inflation.

9. Historical Trends of CPI

In the stagflation era of the 1970s, the CPI rose sharply. During this period, due to simultaneous economic stagnation and inflation, the CPI gained attention.

10. CPI and Real Income

CPI is also used to evaluate changes in real income. When prices rise, the same income can purchase fewer goods and services, leading to a decrease in real income.

11. Regional Disparities in CPI

In the USA, CPI may vary by region. This is influenced by housing costs and the economic situation in each region.

12. CPI and Living Standards

Rising CPI directly impacts living standards. In particular, for low-income groups, inflation increases economic burdens.

13. CPI and Taxation

The government may adjust the tax system in response to inflation. For example, they may adjust the brackets of income tax to match the inflation rate.

14. CPI and Household Budget Management

Individuals and families can manage their household budget using the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Predicting price fluctuations can help in planning future expenses.

15. CPI and Investment

Investors use the trends of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) as a reference when devising investment strategies. When inflation rises, it may impact bond yields and the stock market.

16. CPI and International Comparisons

By comparing CPIs from different countries, one can understand international price trends and economic conditions. This analysis enables the examination of currency value fluctuations and the impact of international trade.

Based on this information, one can understand how the CPI functions and its effects on the overall economy. CPI is a fundamental tool for understanding the economy, crucial not only in daily life but also in investments.
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