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Higher-than-expected inflation and a surge in jobless claims present a challenge for the Federal Reserve ahead of its upcoming meeting. The Consumer Price Index rose 0.4% in August, exceeding predictions. Jobless claims unexpectedly jumped to 263,000, the highest in nearly four years. These figures, particularly the rise in jobless claims, are likely to prompt the Fed to cut interest rates, potentially by more than the usual quarter-point, given concerns about labor market weakness.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.