How to parse inflation reports

Inflation is receding to more usual levels after climbing to above 9 percent in 2022. But we’re not out of the woods yet. Last week, the Federal Reserve identified persistent inflation as the biggest financial risk currently facing the markets. What relief is on the horizon looks like stabilization, not a return to prices of yesteryear. The Fed’s report may be unsettling, but there’s reason for optimism: higher inflation and interest rates may signal stronger demand and encourage productive capital allocation, say McKinsey senior partners Olivia White, Sven Smit, and coauthors in their new article. For these insights and more, check out the collection below.

What is inflation?

Investing in productivity growth

Economic conditions outlook during turbulent times, December 2023

Forward Thinking on why we ignore inflation — from ancient times to the present — at our peril with Stephen King

Inflation fighter and value creator: Procurement’s best-kept secret

Why you can’t tread water when inflation is persistently high

The Inflation Reduction Act: Here’s what’s in it

Inflation-weary Americans are increasingly pessimistic about the economy