The Inflation Brief | October 2026
In this episode of The Inflation Brief from ECON-versations with NABE , hosts Greg Daco, Chief Economist at EY, and Laura Rosner-Warburton, Senior Economist and Founding Partner at MacroPolicy Perspectives, are joined by Mark Mathews, CBE, Chief Economist at the National Retail Federation, to unpack the latest CPI, PPI, and import price reports and what they reveal about mounting inflationary pressures. The conversation explores how rising energy costs, tariffs, and AI-driven demand are contributing to broader price increases, and whether higher producer costs will ultimately be passed on to consumers. With the holiday shopping season approaching, the trio examines shifting consumer spending patterns, the growing divide between higher- and lower-income households, and the challenges facing retailers. They also debate the persistence of inflation, the outlook for 2027, and the Federal Reserve's next move as policymakers navigate a resilient economy and renewed price pressures. NABE is the premier professional association for business economists and others who use economics in the workplace. Since 1959, NABE has attracted the most prominent figures in economics, business, and academia to its membership with highly-regarded conferences, educational and career development offerings, industry surveys, and its unrivaled networking opportunities. Past presidents of NABE include former Chairman of the Board of Governors for the Federal Reserve System, Alan Greenspan, several former Federal Reserve Governors, and other senior business leaders.
