New numbers show inflation remains stubbornly high in the U.S.

New inflation numbers on April 26, 2024, revealed the cost of many essentials remains high for consumers. The federal government's report showed prices rose at an annual rate of 2.7% last month, just a bit higher than the month before. "Inflation remains persistent and unacceptably high," said Mark Hamrick, a senior economic analyst at Bankrate. According to the report, one of the sticking points is healthcare costs, which make up about a fifth of the economy. Hamrick said unexpected trips to the doctor often hurt consumers the most. "That can really be damaging to their personal finances," he said. Vincent Plymell with the Colorado Division of Insurance said the cost of owning a car, from insurance to repairs, is also driving inflation. "To do anything, you need a car," Plymell said. "And so that's going to impact people." Details: https://ktla.com/news/washington-dc-bureau/new-numbers-show-inflation-remains-stubbornly-high/