February inflation measured by the Consumer Price Index Wednesday was 2.8% annually and was up a lower than expected 0.2% for the month, seasonally adjusted.

Economists are bracing for intensifying price pressures and slower growth, posing a challenge for the Federal Reserve.

Inflation slowed more than expected in February, bringing some relief to consumers and Federal Reserve officials alike even as the effects from higher tariffs threaten to push it up again.. The consumer price index climbed 2.