Core inflation rate slows to 3.2% in December, less than expected
1. Consumer prices rose 0.4% in December, indicating inflation persistence. 2. The 12-month inflation rate stands at 2.9%, meeting economist forecasts. 3. Core CPI annual rate decreased to 3.2%, slightly better than expectations. 4. Excluding food and energy costs, core measure showed marginal improvement. 5. Overall inflation signals may affect S&P 500 market sentiment and trading.