The U.S. consumer price index (CPI) for September is projected to increase by 0.4%, indicating a faster-than-expected rise in inflation. This data, scheduled for release on October 24, 2025, comes during a government shutdown that has led to an economic data blackout for over three weeks. Economists anticipate headline inflation to climb to 3.1% from 2.9%, marking the most significant monthly increase in over a year. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, is also expected to remain steady at 3.1%. In response to these inflationary pressures, investors are predicting a 25 basis point interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve following the data release.