Consumer prices stay nearly flat
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WASHINGTON - US consumer prices stayed flat in November, held down by falling gas prices. Inflation remains low across the broader economy, giving the Federal Reserve latitude to continue its extraordinary stimulus program.
The consumer price index was unchanged last month, after dropping 0.1 percent in October, the Labor Department said Tuesday.
Gas prices declined 1.6 percent in November to keep overall prices down. Over the past 12 months, consumer prices have risen just 1.2 percent. That's well below the Fed's 2 percent inflation target.
Excluding volatile energy and food costs, core prices rose 0.2 percent in November from October and just 1.7 percent over the past 12 months.
High unemployment and small wage increases have kept consumers from ramping up spending, making it difficult for businesses to raise prices since the Great Recession ended.
Lower gasoline costs have kept inflation extremely weak. Gas prices nationwide are averaging just $3.23 a gallon, according to AAA's Daily Fuel Gauge Report.
The November decline in energy costs was offset by higher prices for home rentals, hotels, airfare, and restaurant meals. Grocery prices edged up 0.1 percent last month.
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