January 2014 Consumer and Producer Price Indices (incl. Forest Products)

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The seasonally adjusted Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) increased 0.1 percent in January. Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased 1.6 percent before seasonal adjustment. Increases in the indexes for household energy accounted for most of the all items increase. The electricity index posted its largest increase since March 2010, and the indexes for natural gas and fuel oil also rose sharply. These increases more than offset a decline in the gasoline index, resulting in a 0.6 percent increase in the energy index.

The seasonally adjusted Producer Price Index for final demand increased 0.2 percent in January. This advance followed a 0.1 percent rise in December and no change in November. On an unadjusted basis, the index for final demand moved up 1.2 percent for the 12 months ended in January, the largest 12-month advance since a 1.2 percent increase in October 2013.

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Only one of the price indices we track (Pulp, Paper & Allied Products) declined relative to December. All indices were higher than a year earlier. The indices of Lumber & Wood Products, and Wood Fiber achieved new all-time highs. 

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The foregoing comments represent the general economic views and analysis of Delphi Advisors, and are provided solely for the purpose of information, instruction and discourse. They do not constitute a solicitation or recommendation regarding any investment.