Flawed inflation data dashes Trump’s hopes of a quick affordability victory

Financial TimesThursday, December 18, 2025 at 11:26:49 PM
Flawed inflation data dashes Trump’s hopes of a quick affordability victory
  • Recent inflation data has raised concerns, with the White House celebrating a perceived cooling in price growth, while Wall Street has criticized the report as flawed and misleading. This discrepancy highlights the ongoing challenges in accurately assessing the economic landscape, particularly regarding affordability.
  • For former President Trump, this development undermines his narrative that the economy is improving and that living costs are decreasing. His claims of an affordability 'hoax' are increasingly met with skepticism from American voters facing rising prices.
  • The broader economic context reveals a persistent affordability crisis, with many Americans dissatisfied with the rising costs of essentials. Despite Trump's assertions, public sentiment indicates a disconnect between political rhetoric and the lived experiences of citizens, suggesting that economic confidence remains fragile.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Nike shares fall sharply as weak China sales dent faith in turnaround
NegativeFinancial Markets
Nike's shares have experienced a sharp decline due to disappointing sales in China, prompting the CEO to acknowledge the need for a strategic 'reset' in the region while also dealing with the implications of Trump-era tariffs.
Trump signs order to ease US marijuana regulations, sparking industry hopes
PositiveFinancial Markets
Former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at easing federal regulations on marijuana, a move that has generated optimism within the cannabis industry. This decision is seen as a significant shift in the regulatory landscape, potentially leading to increased investment and growth opportunities in the sector.
GPB Capital Fraud Conspirator Jeffry Schneider Seeks Clemency
NegativeFinancial Markets
Jeffry Schneider, a conspirator in the GPB Capital fraud case, has requested clemency from the trial judge, citing the recent commutation of a co-conspirator's sentence by former President Trump. Schneider is currently serving a six-year sentence for his involvement in the fraudulent scheme.
Analysis-How Trump’s Venezuela embargo could put Taiwan at risk
NeutralFinancial Markets
The recent embargo imposed by former President Donald Trump on Venezuela's oil exports has raised concerns about potential repercussions for Taiwan, particularly in the context of global oil supply and geopolitical tensions. The embargo aims to cripple the Maduro government's revenue, which is crucial for its survival amid ongoing economic turmoil.
Trump’s Net Worth Rises $500 Million On Trump Media Merger
PositiveFinancial Markets
Former President Donald Trump has seen a significant increase in his net worth, rising by $500 million following the merger of Trump Media, which encompasses platforms such as Truth Social, Truth+, and TruthFi. This development marks a notable financial turnaround for Trump amid fluctuating market conditions.
Trump Acknowledges Obamacare Premiums Will ‘Skyrocket’—But Says He Doesn’t Want Subsidies Extended
NegativeFinancial Markets
Former President Donald Trump acknowledged that premiums for Obamacare are expected to 'skyrocket' but expressed his opposition to extending subsidies that help lower-income individuals afford health insurance. The tax credits are set to expire at the end of the month, raising concerns about increased healthcare costs for many Americans.
Trump family deal with fusion energy firm adds to complicated UK-US ties
NeutralFinancial Markets
The Trump family has entered into a significant deal with TAE Technologies, a fusion energy firm, which includes a joint venture with the UK government's atomic laboratory. This partnership aims to advance nuclear fusion technology, reflecting a growing interest in sustainable energy solutions.
Trump claims he’s cut energy costs. Has he?
NeutralFinancial Markets
Former President Donald Trump has claimed that his policies have successfully cut energy costs, a statement that raises questions about the actual impact on consumers. This assertion comes amid ongoing debates about affordability and economic conditions in the U.S.

Ready to build your own newsroom?

Subscribe to unlock a personalised feed, podcasts, newsletters, and notifications tailored to the topics you actually care about