Consumer prices rose 0.1% in September

Consumer prices increased a seasonally adjusted 0.1% in September after falling 0.2% in August – in line with economists’ estimates. The figure is a signal of modest U.S. inflation pressures as concerns of a global slowdown grow.

Economists surveyed by The Wall Street Journal had forecast a 0.1% increase consumer costs.

So-called core prices, which does not include the volatile food and energy categories, was up 0.1% – economists had forecast a 0.2% increase.

Compared to a year ago, consumer prices were up 1.7%.

The report provided important information about how prices in the country are changing, which will affect the annual cost-of-living increase for Social Security and disability payments that millions of Americans depend on.

The US Federal Reserve is closely watching these inflation measures as they plan monetary policy. Flat inflation suggests the Fed has flexibility to maintain rates low without serious risk of hurting economy.