UK inflation accelerated more than expected in July, with headline CPI rising to 3.8% yoy from 3.6% yoy, surpassing forecasts of 3.7% yoy and marking the highest level since early 2024. The biggest driver was transport costs, particularly higher airfares, which made the largest contribution to the monthly rise in annual rates.
Breakdown data showed broad-based strength. CPI goods inflation climbed to 2.7% yoy from 2.4% yoy, while CPI services surged to 5.0% yoy from 4.7% yoy. Meanwhile, core CPI edged up from 3.7% yoy to 3.8% yoy, topping expectations and matching the headline pace, highlighting persistent underlying pressures.
For BoE, the data poses a challenge. The uptick in both headline and core inflation risks slowing the recent easing cycle, as policymakers balance still-high inflation against weaker economic growth momentum. Markets may scale back expectations for near-term cuts if the stickiness persists.
