Wall Street Journal (12/17/13) Eric Morath

The consumer price index advanced 1.2% in November year-to-year, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, while the consumption expenditures price index increased 0.7% in October year-to-year, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Both numbers are below the U.S. Federal Reserve’s 2.0% inflation target and demonstrate soft consumption and wage growth. These numbers may delay the Fed’s decision to slow its stimulus program. Some economists say the Fed could announce a slowing of its bond-buying program today due to an improving labor market and the recent federal budget deal.