[blurb-capmind-prem]
Okay, we’re now getting into ludicrous territory. Consumer Price Inflation has just crossed into double digits, moving to 10.1% in October 2013. Wholesale price data will only come on Friday.
And here’s where it gets worse. Inflation which seemed to have mellowed in Rural areas a few months back, is now back to double digits.
And it’s not just food, like they’ve been telling us all this time. Food inflation is high – at 12%. But Housing at 10% isn’t much behind, and costs of transport, Education etc. have gone up. Fuel costs have remained only at 7% which is artificially down (as retail prices must be increased, we are currently subsidising fuel).
Impact: A Interest rate hike is possible.
While this is the call of the hour, it is unlikely they jump the gun until WPI data comes along. They’ll first give us the runaround about how “core” inflation is still under control if you ignore food, but you can’t ignore food. Food prices CAN be brought down by higher rates, because the problem in food is not supply (ample rainfall has ensured there shouldn’t be a drop). Plus, a hike in rates can easily bring down “Others” and “Housing” inflation.
We need to tighten liquidity and tighten rates, very fast. I believe 10% deposit rates should be expected and if this number is any indicator, consumer price inflation is moving up at a rapid pace.
