Implications of US inflation data and planned tariffs

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In January 2025, US inflation data surprised with a 0.5% m/m increase, pushing up annual inflation to 3%, which is above the 2% target. The details showed some broadening out of price pressures. This makes it likely the US Federal Reserve will hold rates for the next couple of months, which would influence other central banks, including SA.
The US has delayed until March its intended tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, as well as on aluminium and steel. It will also review other areas where US tariffs are lower than those of its trading partners. This is likely to lead to negotiations and will extend uncertainty around global tariffs.
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17 Feb 2025 English South Africa Investing · Business News
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