The UK Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rose by 3% in the 12 months to February 2026, unchanged from January, as economists sound the alarm on the looming energy price shock resulting from conflict in the Middle East.
On a monthly basis, CPI rose by 0.4% in February this year, the same rate as in February 2025, according to data from the Office for National Statistics released today (25 March). Clothing made the largest upward contribution to the monthly change in CPI, while motor fuel made the largest downward contribution. Meanwhile, core CPI, which excludes energy, food, alcohol and tobacco prices, increased to 3.2% in the 12 months to February 2026, up from the 3.1% recorded in January. Aberdeen deputy chief economist Luke Bartholomew described the inflation report as "little more than a r...
To continue reading this article...
Join Professional Adviser for free
Signup and gain exclusive members-only insights
- Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
- Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
- Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
- Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
- Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
- Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes
