This figure mirrors the identical increase observed in June, revealing a steady trend in inflation.

Over the past year, the all items index registered a 3.2 percent surge before being adjusted for seasonal fluctuations. The report underscores the ongoing conversation about inflationary pressures impacting the economy.

Of notable significance, the index for shelter emerged as the primary contributor to the overall monthly increase in all items, accounting for a substantial 90 percent of the rise. Motor vehicle insurance also played a role in this increment. In the realm of sustenance, the food index saw a 0.2 percent uptick in July, following a 0.1 percent increase in the prior month. This was marked by a 0.3 percent increase in the index for food at home, along with a 0.2 percent rise in the index for food away from home.

Energy's trajectory saw a mild 0.1 percent boost in July, as the various energy component indexes exhibited mixed trends. Stripping away food and energy, the index for all items recorded a 0.2 percent climb, mirroring the same movement observed in June. Sectors experiencing upticks in June included shelter, motor vehicle insurance, education, and recreation. Conversely, sectors such as airline fares, used cars and trucks, medical care, and communication observed decreases over the month.

Analyzing the broader scope, the all items index noted a 3.2 percent increase over the 12 months ending in July, slightly surpassing the 3.0-percent rise witnessed in the 12 months ending in June. Meanwhile, the index for all items excluding food and energy exhibited a notable 4.7 percent ascent over the last year. The energy index presented a contrasting picture, witnessing a 12.5 percent decrease for the 12 months ending in July, while the food index marked a 4.9 percent increase over the same period. (ILKHA)