Table of Contents:
The current inflation environment in the United States
Inflation in the United States increased by 0.3% in November, a figure that aligns with analysts’ forecasts. This increase, although modest, brought year-on-year inflation to 2.7%, up from 2.6% in October. Industry experts had anticipated this rise, highlighting a stability in the inflationary trend that
has lasted for several months.
Analysis of the sectors affected by inflation
A more detailed analysis reveals that energy prices registered an increase of 0.2% after a period of stability, while food saw an increase of 0.4%%. However, on an annual basis, energy prices fell by 3.2%, while food prices increased by 2.4%. These data suggest some price volatility, with the food sector continuing to represent a concern for consumers
.
Mortgage applications and the real estate market
In parallel with the trend in inflation, mortgage applications showed a significant increase in the week of December 6, with a 5.4% increase in the volume of mortgage applications. Refinancing requests increased by 27.2%, while those for new applications are down. This scenario is influenced by the decrease in 30-year mortgage rates, down to 6.67%. The combination of lower rates and increased refinancing requests could indicate greater consumer confidence in the housing market
.
Implications for the automotive and aircraft market
In a changing economic environment, the automotive sector is also experiencing significant changes. Volkswagen is considering moving Golf production from Wolfsburg to Mexico, an operation that could have repercussions on the workforce and the local economy. On the other hand, EasyJet plans to launch 250 routes from 20 Italian airports in the summer of 2025, making Italy the second largest market for the airline. This increase in supply could further stimulate tourism and the Italian economy.
The reactions of the stock markets
Chinese equity markets closed in a mixed way, reflecting the uncertainty related to expectations for economic recovery measures from China and to US inflation. The Hang Seng registered a decline, while Shanghai closed higher, highlighting tensions and mixed investor expectations. This scenario highlights the complexity of the current global economic environment, where interconnections between various markets can influence investment decisions and business strategies
.
