WASHINGTON (April 10): US consumer prices increased by the most in nearly four years in March as the war with Iran boosted oil prices and the pass-through from tariffs persisted, further diminishing chances for an interest rate cut this year. Consumer prices rose 0.3% in February. The jump in consumer inflation followed in the wake of a sharp rebound in job growth last month, which suggested the labour market remained stable. Last month's increase only showed the immediate effects of the oil price shock, which has also raised the cost of diesel. Others argued that consumers pulling back as gasoline prices eroded their purchasing power could make it difficult for some businesses to pass on higher costs from oil prices.

Source: The Edge Markets April 10, 2026 12:52 UTC