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Producer prices in the United States: a small increase
In
December 2024, producer prices in the United States showed a more moderate increase than analysts’ forecasts. According to data provided by the American Department of Labor, the producer price index increased by 0.2% on a monthly basis, a figure lower than the +0.4% expected by the experts and the +0.4% recorded in the previous month. This slowdown in price growth could reflect a stabilization of the economy, which is facing significant challenges
.
Annual analysis and core prices
On an annual basis, the increase in producer prices stood at 3.3%, a value that is below market forecasts, which expected an increase of 3.5%. In the previous month, the annual increase had been 3%. Analyzing ‘core’ prices, which exclude volatile components such as food and energy, the picture appears to be rather stable. On a monthly basis, ‘core’ prices did not change, in contrast to +0.2% in the previous month and expectations of +0.3%.
However, on an annual basis, an increase of 3.5% was confirmed, in line with the November figure, but once again below expectations of 3.8%.
News in the European economic sector
In Europe, the European Commission has authorized the acquisition of International Distribution Services by EP Group. This operation, which involves postal and delivery services, does not raise competition concerns. However, the British Antitrust has launched an investigation into Google to assess the possibility of granting it the status of strategic market importance, based on UK regulations. This move could lead to interventions to correct any distortions of competition in the Internet search and advertising services sectors
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Italian industrial production and investments in cryptocurrencies
In November 2024, the seasonally adjusted index of Italian industrial production increased by 0.3% compared to October, with significant growth in the energy and consumer goods sectors. However, on a quarterly basis, there is a decline of 0.4%. Another important news is the entry of Intesa Sanpaolo into the world of cryptocurrencies, with the purchase of 11 bitcoins worth about one million euros. This represents a historic event, being the first Italian bank to make a direct investment in cryptocurrencies. The news was confirmed by the institute after an initial leak on 4Chan
.
