Our Sticker Shock Economy: Understanding Inflation

The last time inflation was this high, the Fed engineered a severe recession. Unfortunately, the problem is much more complex now. Can the off-ramp to spiking inflation go better this time?

American consumers are seeing food prices rise at the fastest rate in decades. Supply chain snarls, labor shortages and climate challenges (plus the conflict in Ukraine) share the blame.

Households can put off some purchases, such as travel and clothes. But higher costs for gas and rent are unavoidable.

From rising rent to higher heating bills, surging inflation impacts everybody, but it poses a particular hardship for people with little extra money to spare.

Midland, Texas, is used to booms and busts. But even here, prices are shocking the local economy — and the Fed may not be able to help.

America is dealing with its worst inflation in nearly 40 years. It could get worse if inflationary psychology takes hold.

Shrinkflation is causing consumers to pay the same or more for less.

As grocery prices rise, women have few places to turn. Some report skipping meals, federal food benefits have not kept up and food pantries are also starting to feel the impact.

Bad takes, revisited.

Gas is nearly six bucks a gallon. Groceries are 8% higher than last year. Dollar stores: now dollar-and-a-quarter stores. But a giant, 23-ounce can of AriZona iced tea still costs 99 cents, the same price it has been since it hit the market 30 years ago.

Feeling stifled by rising prices? These savvy financial tips will help you save and invest your money.