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• U.S. Inflation

• Meta

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Economy & Finance

U.S. Inflation

U.S. consumer prices increased in October, largely due to higher shelter expenses, with inflation progressing slower than anticipated. The Labor Department's data showed a 0.2% rise in the consumer price index, aligning with forecasts but revealing persistent inflationary pressures, especially in core areas like housing. While the Federal Reserve is expected to implement a rate cut in December, the pace of future cuts could be reduced if inflation remains sticky. The core consumer price index, which excludes volatile food and energy costs, continued to rise, prompting concerns among policymakers about achieving the central bank's 2% inflation target.

Technology

Meta

A U.S. judge has ruled that Meta Platforms must face a Federal Trade Commission lawsuit that seeks to break up the company over claims of monopolistic practices. The case argues that Meta, formerly Facebook, acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to eliminate competition and strengthen its social media dominance. Although the judge dismissed accusations about Meta limiting access to its platform for third-party developers, the core allegations concerning the acquisitions remain intact. Meta defends these deals as beneficial for competition, while the FTC, representing bipartisan support, insists the case aims to curb Meta’s market power and promote innovation. A trial date is yet to be set, and Meta is restricted from defending its acquisitions by pointing to rivalry with Apple and Google.

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