Inflation Explained with Fexingo: CPI, Prices, and the Cost of Living for Everyday People

CPI slowed to 2.9 percent in July, but grocery prices remain stubbornly high. In this episode, Lucas and Luna dig into why the basket of goods the government tracks doesn't match what you actually buy. They look at the gap between headline inflation and the 'food at home' index, how restaurant prices are climbing faster, and why the recent lettuce plunge won't fix your overall bill. They also touch on what the Fed's preferred core PCE measure means for your wallet, and how the war in Iran could push energy costs back up. If you've ever felt like the inflation rate doesn't reflect your supermarket receipts, this episode explains the disconnect. Plus, Lucas breaks down why your rent might be falling while your grocery bill stays high, and what that means for the broader economy. You'll come away with a clearer idea of what's really driving your cost of living—and why the numbers don't always tell the whole story. #GroceryPrices #CPI #Inflation #CostOfLiving #FoodAtHome #CorePCE #Fed #Economics #Business #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #JulyCPI #FoodInflation #RestaurantPrices #LettucePlunge #SupermarketReceipts #RentVsGroceries Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna dig into why wholesale prices staying flat in July, despite a hot CPI print, reveals a growing disconnect between goods and services inflation. They explain how the Fed's new dual-track approach—watching both CPI and PCE—along with sticky services costs and falling goods prices, is reshaping what your wallet feels. With the breakeven rate creeping up to 2.27 percent, bond markets are starting to price in more inflation risk. Tune in to understand how this two-front war affects your rent, your groceries, and your savings account. #Inflation #CPI #PCE #FederalReserve #WholesalePrices #BreakevenRate #BondMarket #ServicesInflation #GoodsDeflation #EconomicData #CentralBank #CostOfLiving #InterestRates #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Economics #Macroeconomics #MonetaryPolicy Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In Episode 160 of Inflation Explained with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna unpack a quiet but significant shift in how the government measures inflation—and how that could affect cost-of-living adjustments for Social Security, federal pensions, and even your next raise. They dive into the July CPI report, where headline inflation ticked up to 332.8 while core inflation hit 336.8, and explain why the chained CPI, which accounts for how consumers change their shopping habits when prices rise, produces a lower inflation rate than the standard index. With real-world examples like switching from steak to chicken or buying a used car instead of a new one, they show how this adjustment could mean smaller annual benefit increases for millions of retirees, despite a overall cooling inflation picture. They also touch on the Fed's preferred PCE measure and what the 10-year breakeven rate of 2.27 percent signals about market expectations. A lively, concrete conversation that helps listeners understand a technical change that affects their wallets. #InflationExplained #CPI #ChainedCPI #CostOfLiving #SocialSecurity #FederalPensions #FedWatch #PCE #BreakevenRate #EconomicIndicators #ConsumerPrices #JulyCPI #LucasAndLuna #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Economics #PersonalFinance #Retirement Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna dig into a stubborn puzzle: overall inflation is cooling, yet car insurance premiums keep climbing. They break down why insurance costs are up over 20 percent year-over-year, how state regulators and repair costs play a role, and what it means for your monthly budget. They also connect it to recent CPI data, wholesale price trends, and the Fed's preferred inflation measures. If you've ever wondered why your auto policy renewal stings, this episode explains the forces at work and what might ease the pressure ahead. #CarInsurance #AutoInsurance #Inflation #CPI #PersonalFinance #CostOfLiving #InsurancePremiums #FedPolicy #EconomicTrends #ConsumerPrices #StateRegulators #RepairCosts #SupplyChain #Budgeting #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Economics #Podcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna dig into a striking anomaly in the latest inflation data: while overall CPI ticked up slightly in July, wholesale prices were flat, and lettuce prices saw a record-setting plunge. They explore what's behind the cyclospora-driven crash in lettuce demand, why that hasn't translated into lower grocery bills for most families, and what it says about how food prices are set. They also connect the story to broader trends in services inflation, the Fed's cautious stance, and the budget deficit surge. Along the way, they discuss the gap between headline inflation and lived experience, and why a single commodity's price swing can be misleading. If you've ever wondered why your grocery cart feels more expensive even when some items get cheaper, this episode offers a clear, grounded explanation. #LettucePrices #CPI #Inflation #Groceries #Cyclospora #FoodPrices #WholesalePrices #FedPolicy #BudgetDeficit #EconomicsPodcast #CostOfLiving #GroceryBills #ServicesInflation #CoreCPI #InflationData #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #MoneyTalk Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna dig into the Fed's favorite inflation gauge: supercore services inflation. With July CPI out and the annual rate at 3.4 percent, they explain why the Fed is less worried about headline numbers and more focused on a narrow slice that excludes food, energy, and housing. They walk through what's in the supercore basket—things like medical care, transportation, and recreation—and why it stays sticky even when overall inflation cools. They also touch on the recent drop in ten-year breakevens and what bond markets are signaling about future price growth. If you've ever wondered why the Fed seems to ignore the inflation you actually feel, this episode breaks down the logic and the data behind that decision. #SupercoreInflation #FederalReserve #CPI #InflationData #CoreInflation #MonetaryPolicy #BondMarket #BreakevenInflation #EconomicIndicators #JulyCPI #ServicesInflation #FedWatch #InflationExplained #Economics #Business #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EconomyPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna dig into a puzzle that's been quietly reshaping the economy: rents are falling, yet house prices keep climbing. Using the latest CPI data from June 2026, they explain why the rent component — which makes up a third of the inflation index — is finally cooling, and why that hasn't stopped home prices from hitting new highs. They break down the divergence between the owners' equivalent rent measure and actual market rents, and explore what it means for renters, homeowners, and the Federal Reserve's next move. Along the way, they touch on the July jobs report, the recent gold rally, and what falling rents might signal for core inflation. If you've ever wondered why your landlord hasn't cut your rent even though the news says inflation is cooling, this episode is for you. #RentVsHomePrices #CPI #CoreInflation #OwnersEquivalentRent #HousingMarket #FedPolicy #JulyJobsReport #GoldRally #InflationDivergence #Renters #Homebuyers #Economics #BusinessPodcast #FexingoBusiness #Podcast #PersonalFinance #HousingBubble #EconomicTrends Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna unpack the Fed's updated inflation framework — what it means for your everyday costs, from groceries to rent, and why the central bank is now looking at a broader set of price signals. They start with the latest data: the CPI index dipped to 332.6 in June from 333.98, but core PCE inched up, and the ten-year breakeven rate sits at 2.25 percent. They walk through a concrete example: how a 4.5 percent rise in your supermarket basket feels different from a 2 percent rise in a broad index, and why the Fed cares about that gap. They also explore what the new average-inflation targeting approach means for your savings account and mortgage rates, referencing the current federal funds rate of 3.63 percent. The hosts keep it grounded, using the July jobs miss and gold's rally as real-world touchpoints. A subtle, timely appeal to support the show ties in smoothly. If you've ever wondered why your paycheck doesn't stretch as far as the headline number suggests, this episode gives you the practical lens to see the difference. #InflationExplained #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Economics #FederalReserve #Inflation #CPI #PCE #CostOfLiving #InterestRates #CentralBanking #AverageInflationTargeting #JobMarket #GoldRally #PriceIndex #HousingCosts #GroceryPrices #FedPolicy Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

The July jobs report landed with a thud: the US economy lost 23,000 jobs, and private payrolls added just 44,000. In this episode of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna cut through the noise to ask what a cooling labor market actually means for everyday prices. They look at why gold is surging 7.4% in a week while core inflation stays stubbornly flat, and what the disconnect between job numbers and price data says about the economy's next move. If you've wondered whether a weaker jobs market might finally ease the squeeze on your rent or grocery bill—or why investors are piling into gold instead—this conversation gives you a clear, grounded read. No jargon, no panic, just the numbers that matter and how they connect to your cost of living. #JulyJobsReport #LaborMarketCooling #GoldRally #InflationExplained #CoreCPI #FederalReserve #InterestRates #CostOfLiving #EconomicData #JobsReport2026 #GoldPrice #InflationTrends #PayrollGrowth #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Economics #Investing #MarketAnalysis Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Gold is up over seven percent in five days, yet consumer prices are falling. Lucas and Luna dig into the widening gap between gold's rally and cooling inflation data. They explore what central bank buying, falling real yields, and a weak jobs report have to do with it — and why gold might be telling us something equities aren't. If you've been scratching your head at gold's surge, this episode connects the dots. #GoldRally #CPI #Inflation #CentralBanks #Fed #RealYields #JobsReport #Economics #Investing #PreciousMetals #GoldETF #GoldMiners #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #MarketAnalysis #EconomicTrends #GoldPrices #Macro Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna unpack a curious market moment: inflation is cooling — CPI dipped to 332.6 in June — yet gold just surged over nine percent in a single week, hitting $4,400 an ounce. They explore what's driving the divergence: real yields, central bank buying, and a softening labor market that saw 23,000 jobs lost in July. Why do investors pile into gold when price pressures ease? Is it a hedge against the next shock, or a signal that the bond market knows something CPI doesn't? With gold miners up seventeen percent and silver climbing ten, Lucas and Luna break down the mechanics, the history, and what it might mean for your portfolio. They also touch on how gold's move relates to the Fed's next move — and why the ten-year breakeven rate ticking up to 2.26 percent matters. If you've ever wondered whether gold belongs in your retirement mix, this episode gives you a clear-eyed, data-driven perspective. #Gold #Inflation #CPI #PreciousMetals #FederalReserve #RealYields #CentralBankBuying #LaborMarket #JobsReport #EconomicData #Investing #PortfolioStrategy #Economics #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #GoldRally #MarketAnalysis Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna tackle a fresh inflation puzzle: core services prices have stayed stubbornly high even as headline CPI cools. They focus on one surprising category — fitness club memberships — which have been rising at nearly three times the rate of overall core services. Using fresh data from June 2026, they break down why demand for gym memberships is booming, how pricing power works in subscription businesses, and what this tells us about the broader 'sticky services' problem that's keeping the Fed on hold. They also look at the divergence between goods and services inflation and what it means for your monthly budget. If you've wondered why your gym bill keeps creeping up while your grocery bill feels lighter, this episode is for you. #InflationExplained #CoreCPI #ServicesInflation #GymMembership #FitnessIndustry #SubscriptionPricing #FedPolicy #Economics #CostOfLiving #PersonalFinance #ConsumerSpending #PriceIndex #StickyInflation #PricingPower #Budgeting #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EconomicTrends Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna unpack a puzzle: headline inflation is easing, yet your morning coffee keeps getting more expensive. They trace the cost from the arabica bean to your cup, showing how extreme drought in Vietnam and Brazil has slashed supply, pushing global coffee futures to record highs. They connect the dots to the latest CPI data — which rose just 0.1 percent in June — and explain why energy and food prices are excluded from 'core' inflation, making the coffee spike invisible to the Fed's favorite gauge. Along the way, they discuss how roasters and cafes absorb costs, why shelf prices lag futures by months, and what this means for your budget. It's a deep dive into one commodity's ripple effects, with a nod to broader inflation trends. Tune in for a clear, conversational breakdown of why your latte costs more, even as the overall price picture cools. #CoffeePrices #Inflation #CPI #Commodities #SupplyChain #DroughtImpact #VietnamDrought #BrazilCoffee #ArabicaBeans #CoreInflation #FedPolicy #CostOfLiving #ConsumerPrices #Economics #BusinessPodcast #FexingoBusiness #InflationExplained #DailyBriefing Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna dig into a puzzle that's been showing up in listeners' mail: the overall inflation rate is cooling, yet your internet bill keeps creeping up. They unpack the mechanics of broadband pricing — why the Bureau of Labor Statistics treats internet service differently from other goods, how promotional pricing distorts the official CPI number, and why the end of the Affordable Connectivity Program is now showing up in real bills. They also look at the latest CPI and core PCE data from June, and what the Fed's current stance means for services inflation. If you've ever wondered why your bill doesn't match the headlines, this episode is for you. #InternetPrices #BroadbandCPI #InflationDivide #ServicesInflation #AffordableConnectivityProgram #FedPolicy #CorePCE #CPIReport #Economics #CostOfLiving #ConsumerPrices #Telecom #InternetBills #LucasAndLuna #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #InflationExplained #MoneyTalks Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

CPI is finally cooling, but have you noticed the price of a concert ticket, a Broadway show, or a football game? Those prices keep climbing. In this episode, Lucas and Luna dig into why live-event prices are bucking the inflation trend. They start with a surprising stat: the entertainment sub-index of CPI rose 3.1 percent year-over-year in June, even as headline CPI fell. They explore the forces behind this — from dynamic pricing algorithms to the rise of mega-tours by artists like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, to the fact that the supply of venues and seats is fundamentally limited. They also connect it to the broader 'experience economy' and why consumers keep paying up. Finally, they tie it back to the Fed's dilemma: sticky service inflation is exactly what keeps the Fed on hold. Tune in for a fresh look at what's really driving your entertainment bills. #LiveEvents #ExperienceEconomy #EntertainmentInflation #DynamicPricing #LuxuryGoods #Inflation #CPI #ConsumerSpending #FedPolicy #TaylorSwift #Beyonce #Broadway #SportsTickets #SupplyAndDemand #Economics #BusinessPodcast #FexingoBusiness #Podcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the growing split between rents and hotel prices. With CPI showing rents down but hotel rates up, they break down what's driving the divergence: shifting supply in residential versus hospitality markets, the rise of remote work, and the boom in leisure travel. They look at the latest data, including the June CPI report and the PCE index, and discuss what this means for the average consumer. Whether you're a renter, a traveler, or just curious about the economy, this episode offers a clear and engaging look at why two seemingly connected markets are moving in opposite directions. #RentVsHotels #HousingMarket #CPI #Inflation #TravelEconomy #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #RemoteWork #LeisureTravel #RealEstate #PCE #CostOfLiving #PriceIndex #SupplyAndDemand #ConsumerSpending #FedWatch #MarketTrends Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Headline inflation is easing, but core CPI—which strips out food and energy—is still running hotter than the overall number. In this episode, Lucas and Luna dig into the June 2026 CPI release: overall CPI fell to 332.6 while core CPI held at 336.1, a gap that matters for your wallet and for the Fed's next move. They explain why services like rent and medical care are keeping core inflation sticky even as goods prices decline, why the Fed's preferred gauge—core PCE—actually ticked up, and what today's 10-year breakeven rate of 2.28 percent says about market expectations. If you've ever wondered why the inflation you feel doesn't match the headline number, this episode gives you a practical framework to read the data yourself. No jargon, no math overload—just a clear conversation about the forces that shape your cost of living. #CoreInflation #CPI #Inflation #FederalReserve #InterestRates #CostOfLiving #Economics #Finance #PCE #BreakevenRate #BondMarket #ServicesInflation #GoodsDeflation #Rent #MedicalCosts #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EconomicData Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

The June CPI ticked down to 332.6, but the bond market's breakeven inflation rate rose to 2.26% from 2.20%. Lucas and Luna unpack why investors are pricing in higher inflation ahead, even as headline numbers soften. They explore the role of rising oil prices, new tariff risks, and sticky services inflation, and what this divergence means for the Fed's next move amid a slowing economy. #Inflation #CPI #BondMarket #BreakevenInflation #FederalReserve #MonetaryPolicy #OilPrices #Tariffs #CorePCE #ServicesInflation #Economy #GDP #Investing #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Economics #MarketData #LucasAndLuna Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

The latest CPI reading showed a welcome drop to 332.6, but core inflation barely budged and the Fed's preferred PCE gauge is still rising. So why can't the Fed agree on a rate cut? Lucas and Luna dig into the internal divisions at the Federal Reserve, from hawks who see sticky services inflation to doves who worry about falling goods prices. They also break down what the rising 10-year breakeven rate (now 2.26%) signals about market expectations. Plus, a look at how Kevin Warsh's recent phrasing hints at the Fed's next move. This episode helps you understand why your borrowing costs might stay high even as headline inflation cools. #Inflation #CPI #PCE #FederalReserve #Fed #InterestRates #BondMarket #BreakevenRate #MonetaryPolicy #KevinWarsh #CoreInflation #ServicesInflation #Hawkish #Dovish #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #CostOfLiving Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Headline CPI fell for a second straight month in June, dropping to 332.6 from 333.98. But core CPI stuck at 336.1, barely moving. Lucas and Luna dig into why the Fed can't cut rates despite the headline relief — and what the bond market's 2.20% breakeven rate tells us about the real inflation picture. With import prices at 2008 highs and PCE still rising, this episode explains the inflation divergence that matters most for your cost of living. #Inflation #CPI #CoreCPI #FederalReserve #Fed #InterestRates #MonetaryPolicy #BondMarket #BreakevenInflation #PCE #ImportPrices #CostOfLiving #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Podcast #CentralBanking #InflationExpectations Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Import prices from China just hit their highest level since 2008. That sounds inflationary. But the 10-year breakeven inflation rate — the bond market's best guess for future inflation — is actually falling. In this episode, Lucas and Luna unpack the disconnect. They explain why bond traders see tariffs and import surges as one-time price shocks rather than lasting inflation. They also contrast the breakeven with the Fed's preferred PCE gauge, which is still rising. With the Fed funds rate at 3.63% and CPI falling, the hosts explore what the bond market's signal means for interest rate cuts later this year. Plus: what falling breakeven inflation means for your mortgage and savings. A compact guide to reading the bond market's mind on inflation. #Inflation #BondMarket #BreakevenInflation #ImportPrices #ChinaTariffs #FederalReserve #CPI #PCE #InterestRates #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Tariffs #SupplyChain #TreasuryYields #FedPolicy #InvestmentStrategy #PodcastEpisode Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

CPI is falling, but last week's import price report showed a surprise jump – costs from China hit their highest since 2008. Lucas and Luna unpack why this number matters even though you haven't felt it at the store yet, how front-loading and tariffs are distorting the data, and whether this could stall the disinflation trend. They also touch on the bond market's calm reaction and the new generic drug tariff proposal. If you've ever wondered why economists watch obscure trade data, this episode explains the connection to your wallet. Recorded July 28, 2026. #Inflation #CPI #ImportPrices #China #Tariffs #Fed #Disinflation #Economics #CostOfLiving #PriceSurge #TradePolicy #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #PodcastEpisode #GlobalTrade #SupplyChain #ConsumerPrices #BondMarket Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

CPI is falling, headline now at 332.6, but a new policy proposal could hit one of your biggest monthly expenses: generic drugs. We break down the White House's plan for pharmaceutical tariffs starting in 2028, why generic prices have been a rare inflation bright spot, and what the bond market's falling breakeven rate (2.21%) implies about the odds of these tariffs sticking. Plus, why your pharmacy bill might look very different in two years. #InflationExplained #CPI #DrugTariffs #GenericDrugs #PrescriptionCosts #TrumpTariffs #Pharmaceuticals #BondMarket #BreakevenRate #FedPolicy #HealthcareInflation #TradePolicy #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #CostOfLiving #PriceIndex #ImportPrices Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In Episode 139 of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna unpack a striking trend in the latest June CPI data: headline inflation fell to 332.6, but core CPI held steady at 336.1. The reason? Goods prices are declining—think electronics, used cars, and furniture—while services like haircuts, insurance, and rent continue to rise. They explore why service inflation is so sticky, from tight labor markets to minimum wage increases, and what that means for the Fed's next move. With the 10-year breakeven inflation dropping to 2.21%, the bond market sees overall inflation cooling, but services may keep pressure on the central bank. A practical look at the split in your cost of living. #InflationExplained #CPI #CoreCPI #ServicesInflation #GoodsDeflation #FedPolicy #LaborMarket #CostOfLiving #BondMarket #BreakevenInflation #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Economics #MonetaryPolicy #WageGrowth #PriceStickiness #LucasAndLuna #InflationDivide Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Headline CPI fell again in June to 332.6, but your health insurance premiums? Up. Your co-pays? Up. Tuition fees? Rising. In this episode, Lucas and Luna unpack the growing gap between the overall inflation numbers and what you actually spend on services. Core PCE, the Fed's preferred gauge, actually ticked up to 130.1 in May, driven by medical care and other sticky service costs. The bond market sees only 2.26% inflation ahead, but consumers are living a different reality. We explain why services like healthcare and education are immune to the disinflation hitting goods, and what it means for your wallet and the Fed's next move. Plus, a candid moment about how this ad-free show stays independent. #Inflation #CPI #PCE #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #MedicalInflation #ServicesInflation #Fed #FedPolicy #InterestRates #CorePCE #CoreCPI #HealthcareCosts #Tuition #BondMarket #BreakevenInflation #PriceDivergence Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna examine a surprising divergence: despite the June CPI dropping to 332.6, the cost of imported goods from China just hit its highest level since 2008. They explore why retailers are absorbing these higher costs for now, how new tariffs may eventually force price hikes, and what this could mean for the inflation outlook. With the 10-year breakeven inflation falling to 2.26, the bond market seems unconcerned — but is it wrong? #InflationExplained #ChineseImports #Tariffs #CPI #ImportPrices #ConsumerPrices #BondMarket #BreakevenInflation #Retail #SupplyChain #CostPush #GlobalTrade #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #PodcastEpisode #Episode137 #Inflation Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

On Episode 136 of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna dig into a fascinating disconnect: the 10-year breakeven inflation rate has fallen to 2.26%, the lowest in months, signaling that bond traders expect inflation to keep cooling. But at the same time, import prices from China just hit their highest level since 2008, and a new global tariff is raising costs for businesses. So who's right — the market or the policy? We unpack what breakeven rates actually measure, why the bond market is betting on disinflation, and whether tariffs could upend that outlook. A concrete look at how inflation expectations are set and why they matter for your wallet. #Inflation #CPI #BondMarket #BreakevenRate #10YearTreasury #Tariffs #ImportPrices #FederalReserve #InterestRates #Disinflation #MonetaryPolicy #EconomicIndicators #MarketExpectations #ChinaTrade #TradePolicy #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Economics Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

The latest CPI dropped to 332.6, but the Fed's preferred PCE gauge ticked up to 131.5. Lucas and Luna break down the divergence between these two inflation measures, explaining why import prices from China at their highest since 2008 are pushing PCE higher. They discuss what this means for the Fed's rate path at 3.63% and why your personal inflation experience may differ from official numbers. A nuanced look at the data behind the headlines. #Economics #Inflation #CPI #PCE #FederalReserve #InterestRates #ImportPrices #ChinaTariffs #CostOfLiving #MonetaryPolicy #FedFundsRate #CorePCE #BreakevenInflation #ConsumerPrices #Tariffs #Warsh #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Headline CPI is falling, but import prices from China just hit an 18-year high. Lucas and Luna break down what's behind that spike—from tariff policy and supply chain shifts to the goods most affected like electronics and toys. They also explain why this divergence matters for your wallet and the Fed's next move. Plus: how listener support keeps this show ad-free. #InflationExplained #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Economics #ImportPrices #ChinaTariffs #CPI #CoreCPI #Fed #SupplyChain #ConsumerPrices #GoodsInflation #TradePolicy #LucasAndLuna #CostOfLiving #TariffImpact #EconomicData #GlobalTrade Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 133 of Inflation Explained with Fexingo. Lucas and Luna dig into a stubborn corner of your budget: streaming services. Despite headline CPI cooling and even falling, prices for Netflix, Spotify, and Disney+ have quietly climbed 6-8% over the past year. Using fresh July 2026 data — CPI at 332.6, down from 333.98, and Fed funds steady at 3.63% — they unpack why content costs are defying the broader disinflation trend. The hosts trace the economics: how studios' debt loads from the streaming wars are forcing price hikes, why sports rights bidding wars are pushing up bundles, and what the new 'with ads' tiers mean for your monthly bill. They also connect this to the Fed's preferred PCE measure, which ticked up in May, and the surprising 2026 World Cup boost for bars and restaurants noted in the latest Fed Beige Book. If you've noticed your wallet feels lighter even as inflation headlines improve, this one explains why. A Fexingo Business podcast episode. #Inflation #CPI #StreamingServices #Netflix #Spotify #DisneyPlus #CostOfLiving #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Fed #PCE #WorldCup #ContentCosts #SportsRights #Disinflation #Budgeting #ConsumerPrices Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 132 of Inflation Explained with Fexingo dives into the growing disconnect between the rental market and hotel prices. With CPI shelter costs finally easing — the index dipped slightly in June 2026 — but hotel rates still surging, Lucas and Luna unpack why landlords are cutting rents in oversupplied Sun Belt cities while hotels cash in on limited supply and event-driven demand. They break down the data: rent growth has slowed to under 2% year-over-year in places like Austin and Phoenix, while hotel RevPAR is up 6% nationally. Plus, they touch on how Fed policy uncertainty, a strong dollar, and shifting consumer behavior are creating this split. If you're wondering why your apartment lease renewal looks different from your last vacation bill, this episode has the answer. #RentVsHotel #ShelterInflation #CPI #June2026CPI #SunBelt #HotelPrices #SupplyAndDemand #Multifamily #RevPAR #FedPolicy #HousingMarket #Inflation #CostOfLiving #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #InflationExplained #Podcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Inflation Explained with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna tackle a head-scratcher: inflation is falling, yet gold prices have surged to new highs. They unpack why the traditional inflation hedge is behaving differently this time, pointing to the $4,095 per ounce gold price and the 7.4% jump in mining stocks. They examine the role of declining real interest rates, a weaker dollar, and mixed central bank buying patterns. The hosts also explore how the disconnect between CPI and gold reveals shifting perceptions of long-term price stability. A must-listen for anyone wondering whether gold still works as an inflation hedge in today's economy. #Gold #Inflation #CPI #CentralBanks #FederalReserve #RealRates #DollarWeakening #GoldMining #GDX #GLD #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Podcast #InflationExplained #PreciousMetals #MonetaryPolicy #Investing Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In Episode 130 of Inflation Explained with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna dig into a surprising divergence in today's inflation data: while new car prices have barely budged despite lower overall CPI, used car prices have tumbled more than 10% from their peak. They unpack the factors behind the gap — from fading supply-chain constraints and shifting consumer demand to the peculiar mechanics of how the CPI weights vehicle costs. With the June CPI reading at 332.6 and core PCE still edging up, they explore what this means for your next auto purchase and why the used market might be signaling deeper disinflation. Along the way, they reference recent import price trends and the Fed's current rate stance. A clear, data-driven look at one of the most tangible pieces of inflation news that actually hits households' wallets. #UsedCars #NewCars #CPI #Inflation #Disinflation #AutoMarket #CarPrices #ConsumerPrices #Fed #ImportPrices #SupplyChain #CorePCE #VehicleInflation #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #InflationExplained #LucasAndLuna Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna examine the puzzling rally in gold prices despite falling CPI and core inflation in June 2026. With gold hovering near $4,150 an ounce and silver surging over 7% in five days, the hosts drill into what's driving the divergence: falling real yields, central bank buying, and geopolitical uncertainty. They discuss the disconnect between headline CPI dropping to 332.6 while the 10-year breakeven inflation rate ticked up to 2.26%, and what that means for investors watching the Fed. Lucas breaks down the historical relationship between inflation and gold, and why the current environment—flat Fed funds rate at 3.63%, falling CPI but rising breakevens—creates a textbook setup for precious metals. Luna pushes back on whether gold is a reliable inflation hedge anymore, and they explore whether the rally is more about rate-cut expectations than actual inflation. A sharp, data-driven conversation for anyone wondering why their grocery bill feels disconnected from both CPI and the commodities market. #Gold #CPI #Inflation #PreciousMetals #CentralBankBuying #RealYields #Fed #BreakevenInflation #Silver #Commodities #Economics #Investing #GoldRally #RateCuts #Geopolitics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #InflationExplained Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Inflation is cooling, but your auto insurance premium is probably still climbing. In this episode, Lucas and Luna unpack why car insurance costs have become one of the stickiest components of the Consumer Price Index. They dive into the specific mechanics behind it: how rising vehicle repair costs, more expensive parts from China, and the surge in claims frequency have created a lag effect that keeps premiums high even as overall inflation eases. Lucas points to the latest June CPI data, which shows auto insurance up over 8% year-over-year, while headline CPI is down to 2.9%. Luna highlights how import price spikes from China are feeding into replacement parts costs. They also explore why this feels different from previous cycles, and what it means for your household budget. If you've wondered why your insurance bill doesn't seem to be getting the memo about lower inflation, this one is for you. #CarInsurance #CPI #Inflation #AutoInsurance #ConsumerPrices #InsuranceRates #VehicleRepairCosts #ImportPrices #ChinaTariffs #UsedCarPrices #CoreInflation #StickyInflation #Economics #PersonalFinance #CostOfLiving #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #InflationExplained Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Even as overall CPI falls, the delivery fees on your food orders keep climbing. Lucas and Luna explain why third-party delivery platforms have built-in inflation that's immune to broader economic trends. They break down the specific cost drivers — insurance, minimum wage hikes, technology fees — and why a $12 lunch special can end up costing $22. Plus, they connect it to the latest import price data and Fed commentary on consumer spending. If you've wondered why your DoorDash or Uber Eats total keeps rising even as grocery prices cool, this episode is for you. #DeliveryFees #DoorDash #UberEats #FoodDelivery #CPI #Inflation #ConsumerSpending #Fed #ImportPrices #MinimumWage #InsuranceCosts #GigEconomy #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #InflationExplained #CostOfLiving #Takeout Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna unpack the widening gap between hotel prices and airfares in June, using the latest CPI data to show how the post-pandemic travel boom reshaped hotel pricing power. They explore why airlines had to compete while hotels kept raising rates, and what this means for your next trip. #HotelPrices #Airfares #CPI #TravelInflation #PostPandemicTravel #Lodging #Airlines #PricingPower #ConsumerSpending #SupplyAndDemand #Economics #InflationGap #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #CostOfLiving #JuneCPI #TravelCosts Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna break down the growing divide between travel-related inflation categories. While airfares have fallen 6.2% year-over-year, hotel room rates are up 4.8%. They explore why—pointing to supply constraints in lodging, airline capacity returning, and how the post-pandemic travel boom has shifted. Using June CPI data and recent Fed commentary on consumer spending, they explain what this means for your next vacation budget. A sharp, practical episode for anyone planning travel in 2026. #Inflation #CPI #TravelCosts #HotelPrices #Airfare #SupplyAndDemand #ConsumerSpending #JuneCPI #PostPandemicTravel #TravelBoom #Lodging #Airlines #RevengeTravel #PriceDivergence #Economics #BusinessPodcast #FexingoBusiness #CostOfLiving Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 124 of Inflation Explained with Fexingo. Lucas and Luna break down why import prices just hit their highest level since 2008, according to the latest data from mid-July 2026. They connect this to a key gap: wholesale prices dropped 0.3% in June, but retail prices aren't following. Using the example of Chinese-manufactured goods that account for nearly 15% of US imports, they explain how shipping costs, tariffs, and currency shifts get absorbed by retailers—then passed to you. Lucas shows how a container from Shanghai now costs $8,500, up from $2,500 in 2020, and why that doesn't show up in core CPI the way you'd expect. Luna questions whether the Fed's focus on services inflation misses this goods-side pressure. The episode ends with a look at what falling wholesale gasoline prices mean for your next fill-up—and whether the summer slump in transportation costs is already priced in. #ImportPrices #CPI #Inflation #GroceryBill #WholesalePrices #ShippingCosts #ChinaTrade #Fed #MonetaryPolicy #ConsumerPrices #SupplyChain #Tariffs #RetailMarkup #GasolinePrices #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #InflationExplained Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In June 2026, CPI fell to 332.6, but shelter costs rose again. Lucas and Luna dig into why rent and owners' equivalent rent lag the broader inflation slowdown by 12 to 18 months, and what that means for tenants, landlords, and the Fed. They look at how CPI weights shelter at over 33 percent, why new leases are falling while renewals keep climbing, and whether the apartment-building boom in cities like Austin and Nashville is finally going to break the cycle. Plus, a candid moment about how listener support keeps this show ad-free. #CPI #ShelterInflation #Rent #OwnersEquivalentRent #FederalReserve #InflationLag #HousingMarket #ApartmentBoom #Austin #Nashville #Landlords #Tenants #CoreCPI #BreakevenInflation #MonetaryPolicy #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna dig into a surprising inflation anomaly: the cost of gym memberships. While overall CPI has fallen, gym fees remain frozen at 2024 levels — even as landlords, insurers, and equipment costs have all gone up. They explore why the fitness industry is absorbing higher costs instead of passing them on, how the post-pandemic membership surge created a buffer, and whether your monthly dues are about to jump. Using data from the June CPI report and the latest wholesale price index, the hosts explain why this quiet price freeze is actually a ticking time bomb. If you're paying $30 to $60 a month for a gym, you'll want to hear why your bill may double next year. Lucas and Luna also touch on how boutique studios and big-box chains differ, and what the 10-year breakeven inflation rate tells us about future consumer prices. #GymMemberships #CPI #Inflation #FitnessIndustry #PriceFreeze #WholesalePrices #ConsumerSpending #CostOfLiving #Economics #FitnessBusiness #BoutiqueFitness #LucasAndLuna #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #InflationExplained #PodcastEpisode #July2026 #FitnessTrends Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the growing disconnect between wholesale prices, which unexpectedly declined 0.3 percent in June 2026, and the retail prices consumers still see rising. They drill into why a drop in gasoline costs didn't filter through to grocery shelves, and how import price gains—especially from China—are keeping margins fat for some businesses. Lucas breaks down the concept of 'cost-plus pricing' versus what companies actually do: price what the market will bear. Luna points out that the core PCE price index, the Fed's preferred gauge, actually rose in May, complicating the narrative. They discuss the implications for the Fed's rate path, with the effective federal funds rate holding at 3.63 percent. The episode also touches on the World Cup boost for bars and restaurants, and why that might be a temporary bright spot. A must-listen for anyone wondering why their wallet doesn't feel the inflation data the headlines celebrate. #WholesalePrices #RetailInflation #CostPlusPricing #PPI #CPI #CorePCE #FedRate #GasolinePrices #ImportPrices #ChinaTrade #WorldCupEffect #Restaurants #Bars #FederalReserve #InflationGap #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 120 of Inflation Explained with Fexingo. Lucas and Luna dive into a surprising new data point: import prices just posted their biggest monthly gain since 2018, driven largely by goods from China hitting their highest level since 2008. Meanwhile, the June CPI fell to 332.6, down from 333.98. So why do price cuts at the store feel so absent? The hosts unpack the disconnect between wholesale and consumer inflation, explaining how rising import costs for raw materials and components quietly flow through to your grocery bill and Amazon cart months later. They examine the role of domestic margins and the lag between producer prices and retail prices, using the recent wholesale price decline and the import price spike as a concrete case. The episode clarifies why a single CPI print doesn't capture the full picture, and what to watch for in the coming months as import costs work their way through the supply chain. #ImportPrices #CPI #Inflation #China #WholesalePrices #RetailPrices #SupplyChain #ProducerPrices #ConsumerPrices #CostOfLiving #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #InflationExplained #PriceSpike #Trade #Tariffs #GlobalTrade Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Inflation Explained with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna break down the June 2026 CPI report, which showed a surprise drop to 3.5% annual inflation. But listeners keep saying their grocery bills haven't budged. The hosts dig into why—focusing on the gap between headline CPI and the actual prices of food at home, which rose 2.1% year-over-year even as overall inflation eased. They explore how volatile energy prices pulled down the headline number, while sticky items like eggs, coffee, and packaged goods remain elevated. With the Fed holding rates at 3.63%, this episode asks: Is the CPI telling us the full story about the cost of living? Lucas and Luna use real data and listener anecdotes to connect the dots between macroeconomic trends and everyday spending. #CPI #Inflation #June2026 #GroceryPrices #FoodAtHome #Fed #InterestRates #CostOfLiving #Economics #ConsumerPrices #CoreCPI #EnergyPrices #StickyInflation #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #InflationExplained #Podcast #LucasAndLuna Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

CPI fell to 3.5% in June 2026 — the lowest in over two years. But for millions of Americans, their personal inflation rate may actually be lower than the official number for the first time since 2021. Lucas and Luna break down the mechanics of substitution bias, how falling gas prices help drivers but not renters, and why the gap between headline CPI and lived experience is flipping. They walk through real examples: a suburban commuter vs. a city renter, a retiree on fixed income vs. a young professional. They also look at the latest wholesale price data — a surprise 0.3% drop in June — and what that signals for the second half of 2026. This episode is a practical guide to understanding why your own inflation number might finally be decoupling from the headlines. #Inflation #CPI #PersonalInflation #SubstitutionBias #ConsumerPrices #WholesalePrices #GasPrices #RentInflation #FederalReserve #PCE #CostOfLiving #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #InflationExplained #June2026CPI #YourInflationRate Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Inflation Explained, Lucas and Luna dig into a paradox that's frustrating millions of workers: the official CPI says inflation cooled to 3.5% in June 2026, yet most people's raises aren't keeping pace with their actual cost of living increases. Using fresh data on wage growth, housing, and services inflation, they explain why headline CPI understates the hit to household budgets—and how the gap between national averages and personal experience is wider than ever. The hosts break down the specific categories where prices are still climbing fast, from rent to insurance, and why your employer's 4% annual raise might actually leave you worse off. They also explore how the Federal Reserve's preferred PCE measure tells a different story, and what that means for your next salary negotiation. If you've felt like your own inflation rate is higher than what you see on the news, this episode explains exactly why. #Inflation #CPI #WageGrowth #CostOfLiving #PersonalFinance #Economics #FederalReserve #RentInflation #ServicesInflation #PCE #RealWages #HouseholdBudget #SalaryNegotiation #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #EconomyExplained #MoneyTalk #InflationExplained Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

The official CPI dropped to 3.5% in June 2026, but your personal inflation rate might be 5% or higher. Lucas and Luna explain why the CPI basket doesn't match how most people spend, using the latest data on shelter, insurance, and gasoline. They walk through how the Bureau of Labor Statistics weights categories and how that masks what you actually pay for rent, car insurance, and streaming subscriptions. Learn one simple method to calculate your own inflation number and why the Fed's 2% target might miss what's happening in your wallet. Also discussed: the June wholesale price decline, the 10-year breakeven rate, and why gold is falling despite sticky inflation. #CPI #Inflation #PersonalFinance #BureauOfLaborStatistics #ShelterCosts #CarInsurance #GasolinePrices #Fed #RealIncome #ConsumerSpending #Economics #Business #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #CostOfLiving #PriceIndex #FinancialLiteracy #InflationTarget Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Inflation is falling, but consumers still feel squeezed. Lucas and Luna explore a 2026 behavioural economics study showing that once prices rise, they anchor our sense of 'normal' — and even when CPI drops, we don't adjust spending. They discuss the 'anchoring effect' on rent, streaming, and groceries, and why the June CPI of 3.5% feels worse than the math suggests. A data-driven look at why your wallet hasn't caught up to the headlines. #InflationPsychology #AnchoringEffect #BehavioralEconomics #CPI #CoreCPI #ConsumerSpending #PriceAnchoring #CostOfLiving #Economics #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Inflation #LucasAndLuna #June2026CPI #WalletAnxiety #MentalAccounting #SubscriptionCreep #InflationExpectations Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 114 of Inflation Explained with Fexingo. The June 2026 CPI report showed headline inflation easing to 3.5%, but the PCE price index rose again. Lucas and Luna drill into why the official CPI number feels disconnected from what households actually pay at the register. They break down the substitution bias in the CPI basket — how the government assumes you switch to cheaper items when prices rise, even if you don't. They walk through real examples: beef versus chicken, store brands versus name brands, and the quiet creep of 'quality adjustment' that can make a smaller, cheaper product look like a good deal in the data. The hosts also touch on how the Fed's preferred PCE index captures a wider range of spending but still misses the pain of everyday purchases. This episode gives you one concrete lens to interpret next month's inflation headline without feeling gaslit by the numbers. #CPI #PCE #Inflation #SubstitutionBias #QualityAdjustment #CostOfLiving #GroceryPrices #FedPolicy #Economics #ConsumerPrices #InflationExplained #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #PriceIndex #RealEconomy #DataSkepticism #HouseholdFinance Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 113 of Inflation Explained with Fexingo. Lucas and Luna unpack how China's producer inflation hitting a near-4-year high while consumer prices barely rise means your Temu and Shein hauls are artificially cheap. They trace the pipeline from deflationary factory output in China to Walmart's price wars in Ohio, and explain why that cheap widget today could mean higher tariffs and inflation tomorrow. With the S&P 500 at 7,515 and gold sliding 2.5% in a week, they connect the dots between global factory trends and your household budget. #ChinaInflation #Deflation #CPI #Temu #Shein #ProducerPrices #Tariffs #Walmart #SupplyChain #GlobalTrade #Economics #Inflation2026 #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #CostOfLiving #ConsumerPrices #PPI #PriceWars Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo