The consumer price index CPI , including homeowners’ housing costs (CPIH), increased by 3.7% in the twelve months to February 2025, down from 3.9% in the twelve months to January.
On a monthly basis, the CPI increased by 0.4% in February 2025, compared to a rise of 0.6% in February 2024.
On a monthly basis, the CPI rose 0.4% in February 2025, down from 3.0% in January. The CPI increased by 0.4% in February 2025, compared to a rise of 0.6% in February 2024.
The largest downward contribution to the monthly change in both the CPI and the annual CPI rates came from clothing, with another significant downward impact on the CPI coming from housing and household services.
The core consumer price index (excluding energy, food, alcohol and tobacco) increased by 4.4% in the twelve months to February 2025, down from 4.6% in the twelve months ended January. Annual commodity price inflation slowed from 1% to 0.8%, while annual service price inflation slowed slightly from 5.8% to 5.7%.
The core consumer price index (excluding energy, food, alcohol and tobacco) rose 3.5% for the twelve months to February 2025, down from 3.7% in the twelve months to January. The annual inflation rate of commodity prices slowed from 1% to 0.8%, while the annual inflation rate of services prices stabilized at 5%.
The Housing Costs for Owners (OOH) component of the Consumer Price Index for housing increased by 7.5% during the twelve months to February 2025, down from 8.0% in the twelve months ending in January. This is the first time the annual rate has slowed since November 2023. Housing costs for owners increased by 0.4% during the month, compared to an increase of 0.9% in the previous year.
How has the annual UK CPI influenced the Bank of England’s monetary policy decisions?
Year-on-year CPI figures significantly influence the Bank of England’s monetary policy decisions in several ways:
Inflation target: The Bank of England is targeting a 2% inflation target. When the year-on-year CPI rises above this target, it often prompts discussions about tightening monetary policy to curb inflation.
Interest rates: High CPI readings can prompt the bank to consider increasing interest rates. This aims to limit consumer spending and borrowing, thereby calming inflationary pressures.
Economic growth considerations: If the CPI rises too quickly, the bank may need to balance its response to prevent stifling economic growth. The bank assesses whether inflation is driven by temporary factors or fundamental economic strength.
Future guidance: The bank uses CPI data to provide guidance on future monetary policy. Persistent above-target inflation could lead to a tighter stance, suggesting potential interest rate hikes.
Market reactions: CPI data influences market expectations. If the CPI year-on-year indicates higher inflation, it could lead to market speculation regarding impending interest rate increases, affecting currency value and investment strategies.
Policy adjustments: The bank may adjust its quantitative easing programs based on CPI trends, reducing asset purchases if inflation is rising or increasing if inflation is below target.
Communication Strategy: The bank often communicates with its justification for policy changes based on CPI data, with the aim of effectively managing public and market expectations.
The year-on-year GBP CPI serves as a crucial indicator for the Bank of England in shaping its monetary policy, influencing decisions on interest rates, economic outlook and overall financial stability.
What are the main factors driving changes in the UK CPI year-on-year?
The main factors driving changes in the GBPI on an annual basis include:
Food prices: Fluctuations in food costs, affected by supply chain issues, weather conditions, and global commodity prices, significantly affect the consumer price index.
Energy costs: Changes in energy prices, such as oil and gas, directly affect household energy bills and transportation costs, contributing to overall inflation.
Housing costs: Rental and homeownership costs, including mortgage interest rates, play a crucial role in calculating the CPI, especially through the housing component.
Transport costs: The prices of vehicles, fuel, and public transport fare can significantly affect the CPI, reflecting broader economic conditions and consumer behavior.
Wages and employment: Higher wages can lead to increased consumer spending, which can lead to higher prices, and thus affect the consumer price index.
Exchange rates: The value of the pound sterling against other currencies can affect import prices. A weaker pound can increase the cost of imported goods, contributing to inflation.
Government policies: Fiscal measures, such as taxes and subsidies, as well as changes in VAT or other regulations, can directly affect prices in various sectors.
Consumer demand: Changes in consumer preferences and spending habits can transform demand patterns, affecting prices across different categories.
Global economic conditions: International economic trends, including trade relations, can affect the cost of imported goods and services, affecting domestic inflation.
Supply chain disruptions: Events such as natural disasters, pandemics, or geopolitical tensions can disrupt supply chains, leading to shortages and higher prices.
These factors interact dynamically, and their combined effects determine the overall movement of the British Pound CPI year-on-year.
