Bitcoin and gold drop after core CPI beats forecasts

August's inflation figures delivered a divided message, with headline consumer prices matching expectations while the core gauge came in ahead of economist forecasts.

Bitcoin and gold prices plunged immediately after the data release, adding fresh uncertainty for investors monitoring the Federal Reserve's upcoming move.

Core inflation remains sticky in August CPI data

The US Consumer Price Index (CPI) advanced 0.4% month-over-month in August, in line with market projections, and the annual rate stood at 3.4% year-over-year, also as anticipated.

Still, the closely tracked core CPI measure, which strips out volatile food and energy items, climbed 0.3% month-over-month, exceeding the 0.2% that was expected. The annual core figure held at 2.4%, matching forecasts.

That hotter monthly core reading could keep pressure on policymakers as they evaluate whether inflation is easing sufficiently to warrant additional interest-rate reductions.

AUGUST U.S. 🇺🇸 INFLATION DATA:

CPI 3.4% YoY, (Est. 3.4%)
CPI 0.4% MoM, (Est. 0.4%)

Core CPI 2.4% YoY, (Est. 2.4%)
Core CPI 0.3% MoM, (Est. 0.2%)

— Wall St Engine (@wallstengine) September 11, 2026