'So much is missing': Inflation report shows good news — but economists say not so fast

The latest Bureau of Labor Statistics report indicates a cooling down of inflation to 2.7 percent, the lowest since July. However, economists caution against premature celebration due to significant data gaps caused by the federal government shutdown. Critical categories like food, medical care, housing, and transportation lack monthly data for October and November. The shutdown also impacted data collection for November, potentially understating inflation. The true state of inflation remains uncertain and will require further observation.