Inflation

The rising cost of food is a pressing issue for Americans, and understanding the factors behind food pricing can provide insights into this complex issue. It’s not just inflation. Things like climate change, fuel price, increased global demand and labor costs are deciding what’s on and off the menu.

Many shoppers blame stores and manufacturers for supermarket inflation. But what do the companies' finances tell us?

Target joins other retailers trying to draw inflation-weary shoppers to stores. The chain says reductions have already been reflected in about 1,500 products.

Social Security beneficiaries will receive a 3.2% cost of living adjustment next year. Inflation has been moderating recently, with consumer prices in September up 3.7% from a year ago.

Inflation cooled slightly in May, thanks in part to falling gas and egg prices. But the overall cost of living is still climbing faster than the Federal Reserve would like.

Retail sales dipped 0.4% in February after a surprise start-of-the-year surge that appeared at odds with the Federal Reserve's goal of cooling down the economy.

Close to 40% of surveyed Americans, a record high, put off medical care last year because of finances. Americans are delaying or skipping doctor's visits, dental and vision care, and medications.

Santa's services are more in demand than ever — and he and his helpers are having a hard time keeping up.

The IRS is increasing energy-related tax breaks, as well as standard deductions for single and married people and heads of households.

Author and podcaster Jacob Goldstein says we don't think of money as a technology, but we should. He traces the first paper currency to China's Sichuan province, and ponders the Fed's next move.