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French inflation continues to pick up in May, highest reading since February 2024

CPI +2.4% vs +2.5% y/y expectedPrior +2.2%HICP +2.8% vs +2.9% y/y expectedPrior +2.5%On the month itself, French headline inflation was up 0.1% in May compared to April. That reflects some moderation in energy prices over the past month but that is still much higher than what it was a year ago. For some context, the headline annual inflation rate is now the highest since February 2024.Looking at the breakdown, food prices held steady at 1.2% while services inflation ticked a little higher to 2.0% (previously 1.8%). The latter continues to be a key sticking point and with higher energy prices set to permeate to other categories, the danger is that it will see a stronger uptick in the months to come.To add a bit of flavour to the report, energy prices were seen at -8.0% year-on-year in May last year. This year, energy prices are seen at +16.8% year-on-year instead. What a difference twelve months make.The major worry for the French economy now is that economic growth looks set to soften further in Q2 while price pressures are likely to pick up further going into the summer months later. Stagflation worries will be a key concern and that pose a considerable threat to the ECB’s plans to manage monetary policy this year.
This article was written by Justin Low at investinglive.com.

🔗 Source

💡 DMK Insight

French inflation data just came in slightly lower than expected, and here’s why that matters: The CPI at 2.4% versus the expected 2.5% suggests a minor easing in inflationary pressures, which could influence the European Central Bank’s (ECB) monetary policy decisions. With HICP also coming in below expectations, this might lead to speculation about a potential slowdown in rate hikes. Traders should keep an eye on the euro, as a softer inflation reading could weaken the currency against the dollar, especially if the ECB signals a more dovish stance. This data could also ripple through related markets, affecting commodities and equities tied to consumer spending. But don’t overlook the fact that inflation is still significantly higher than last year, which means the ECB may still feel pressured to maintain a hawkish tone. Watch for reactions in the forex market, particularly around key levels for EUR/USD. If the euro breaks below recent support levels, it could trigger further selling. Keep an eye on the upcoming ECB meeting for any shifts in guidance, as that could be a pivotal moment for traders looking to position themselves ahead of potential volatility.

📮 Takeaway

Monitor EUR/USD closely; a break below key support levels could signal further euro weakness amid shifting ECB policy expectations.

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