Jan 11, 2024

Not so fast, CPI!

Photo illustration by Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Prices rose in December, so we'll break down how food costs and rent factored in. Plus, some sectors are still stuck with excess inventory.

Segments From this episode

Grocery prices rose 1.3% in the past year. How are shoppers feeling it?

by Elizabeth Trovall

Jan 11, 2024

Here's how some families are trying to economize when it comes to the food they buy to make at home.

With grocery prices up, families are finding ways to economize on the food they buy at the store.

Go Nakamura/Getty Images

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Bloated inventories are dragging down some sectors of the economy

by Justin Ho

Jan 11, 2024

Clothing companies and bike stores are some businesses that still have excess inventory — and that has ripple effects through the economy.

The bike industry has been oversupplied for more than a year, says Jeff Cayley, CEO of Worldwide Cyclery, and many stores are offering deep discounts.

Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

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Finding child care is tough for farming families. The next farm bill could help.

by Savannah Maher

Jan 11, 2024

Most day care centers cater to parents with 9-to-5 jobs. New funding could help child care facilities expand their offerings.

Jamie Viramontes with her children, Cayden and Gracie, on their family farm in New Mexico. Local child care centers cater to people with 9-to-5 jobs, Jamie says.

Courtesy Jamie Viramontes

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Rent data has clout in the consumer price index — but also limitations

by Stephanie Hughes

Jan 11, 2024

The CPI's calculation of shelter costs is considered a lagging indicator.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics checks rent prices every six months, so it can take time for increases to be reflected in the data.

Joe Raedle/Getty Images

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Are we entering a world of surge dining?

by Sabri Ben-Achour

Jan 11, 2024

Dynamic pricing is the practice of having prices that vary by demand or even customer type. We're used to it when it comes to airlines and ridesharing. But what about restaurants?

With the introduction of digital menus during the pandemic, the restaurant industry gained the ability to change their prices in real time.

Alexi Rosenfeld/Getty Images

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Music from the episode

Glimmer Tame Impala

Rising Son Takuya Kuroda

Two Blue Eyes Beirut

Estou Realmente Vivo Azagaia, CFKAPPA, Damani Vand, Keita M, Leonardo W., Lukeny F, Verbal

Any Song ZICO

The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer II

Andie Corban Producer I

Sarah Leeson Producer I

Sean McHenry Director & Associate Producer II

Richard Cunningham Associate Producer I

Sofia Terenzio Assistant Producer

Jordan Mangi Assistant Digital Producer

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