The Producer Price Index for final demand fell 0.3 percent in June, seasonally adjusted, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. Final demand prices advanced 0.6 percent in May and 1.1 percent in April. (See table A.) On an unadjusted basis, the index for final demand increased 5.5 percent for the 12 months ended in June. The June decline in the index for final demand can be attributed to prices for final demand goods, which fell 1.4 percent. In contrast, the index for final demand services moved up 0.2 percent. The index for final demand less foods, energy, and trade services increased 0.1 percent in ... (full story)

Wholesale prices unexpectedly fell in June as sliding energy prices helped brighten the inflation picture, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Wednesday. The produce price index posted a seasonally adjusted 0.3% decline for the month, compared to the Dow Jones consensus estimate for the final-demand cost measure to be unchanged. On an annual basis, the index indicated a 5.5% inflation rate. Excluding food and energy, core PPI rose 0.2%, against the outlook for a 0.3% increase. As with consumer prices, the index benefited from easing energy costs, particularly as oil fell due to receding tensions between the U.S. ... (full story)