Is Inflation Here to Stay in 2022?

Inflation isn’t going anywhere soon

The rising prices currently happening in just about every sector is hardly surprising news at this point. The inflation rate fell at the start of the coronavirus pandemic as the nationwide lockdown had people hunkering down in their homes. In March 2021 however, the impact of halted manufacturing began hitting the market and crude oil prices started climbing, and the inflation rate increased to 2.6%, hitting its current high of 5.4% in June and July. While the rate started falling in August to 5.3%, it then climbed right back up to 6.2% in October. 

Unfortunately, for the average consumer who’s struggling to cover expenses amid rising costs, this means inflation isn’t going anywhere soon. 

Why are prices so high?

There are several factors contributing to the inflation bubble, most of which can be directly linked to the coronavirus pandemic.

First, factory shutdowns at the start of the pandemic have suppliers still trying to catch up on production shortages that resulted. Supply chain disruptions affect more than just consumers. Lots of manufacturers, like automakers, depend on other suppliers for the materials they need to continue production, further limiting supply. As always, a lack in supply brings prices up.

Second, climate change is responsible for driving up prices, particularly in the food industry. Wildfires that devastated close to 2.5 million acres in California, a record-breaking drought in Brazil that came on the heels of a severe frost and dry weather in the Dakotas have all contributed to rising prices for commodities like sugar, soy, coffee and more. This, in turn, forces restaurants and fast-food chains to increase their prices as well. 

Another factor contributing to rising prices in nearly every sector of the economy is the demand for higher wages across the nation. The rising cost of living means employees need a higher salary just to survive. This price difference is often passed off to consumers through higher price tags on products and services. 

Finally, as always, the price of fuel impacts every part of the economy. With gas prices trending upward along with crude oil prices, the cost of everyday goods, luxury items and shipping will likely continue to rise. 

What can consumers expect in 2022?

For better or for worse, shoppers are learning how to deal with the higher prices at the pump and from store shelves. Some are trimming their budgets in any way possible, while others are looking for additional streams of income to help them get by. No one can accurately predict the future, but economists are expecting inflation levels to taper off by the middle of 2022. According to a survey by the Wall Street Journal in 2021, many are even expecting inflation to drop to 3.4% by June 2022, and then continue falling until it hits 1.8% by the year’s end. 

It isn’t easy to stick to your budget and savings goals with rising prices at every turn. Hopefully, though, the coming year will bring better news for the economy. If you need help creating a new 2022 budget taking into account inflated prices, we can help! Hop onto cfcu.org/financialresources or call our Member Contact Center at (877) 937-2328 to get assistance today!

Your Turn: How are you dealing with the inflation bubble? Share your tips with us in the comments.