The CPI outlook looks shaky and this week's print may show a rise of about 0.3% this past month, which could lift the annual rate to roughly 2.9%. Some analysts even think it might hit 3% year‑over‑year. The boost seems tied to higher food and energy costs. One estimate even points to a 2% jump in gas prices month‑to‑month, therefore pressure stays on and shoppers likely notice higher costs at checkout. The real debate, though, centers on core CPI numbers – the ones that leave out the wild food and energy swings. Different analysts see two paths ahead. One camp thinks we’ll see a 0.3 % rise from month to month, ... (full story)