Oops!...Inflation Did It Again: Tariffs Threaten My Shopping Spree!

Gimme More...Inflation?

Okay dolls so I was checking my bank account – 'cause you know a girl's gotta know if she can afford another diamond dog collar! – and I saw this news about inflation. Apparently it's like a little bit higher in May? 2.4% to be exact! Economists are saying it's all these tariffs that President Trump put on everything. Like seriously? Can't a girl get a break? Is this what they mean by 'You want a piece of me?' 'Cause I don't want a piece of inflation!

Not a Girl Not Yet a (Financial) Woman

So apparently this "base effects" thing made May look worse than it is. The monthly rate is only up 0.1%. One economist guy Mark Zandi says it's all good – that inflation is back to where the Federal Reserve wants it. But he also said the tariffs are gonna hit us hard later this year. So it's like 'Hit me baby one more time,' but instead of a hit song it's higher prices! I'm scared y'all! Is this the calm before the storm?

Gasoline: Lucky or Toxic?

Okay so gas prices are actually down which is kinda 'Lucky,' right? Down almost 3% in May. But this economist Bernard Yaros says it's 'cause people are worried about the economy because of the tariffs. So it's like cheaper gas but for a sad reason. Is this some kind of trick? Are we living in a 'Toxic' world?

Oops!...My Groceries Are Getting Expensive!

But here's the real problem: groceries. They went up 0.3% last month! Seriously?! My avocado toast budget is already stretched thin! Mark Zandi (that economist guy again) said he's worried about food prices. Me too Mark! Me too! A girl's gotta eat and I prefer my food to be fabulous and affordable. Like are we gonna have to start growing our own kale in the backyard? I’m not ready to become a farmer! Baby One More Time No!!!!

Stronger Than Yesterday (But Is My Wallet?)

Apparently people are still spending money which is good I guess? But some other economist Sarah House said the consumer hasn't buckled yet but that tariffs risk “stalling out” disinflation. Whatever that means. All I know is that Yale Budget Lab says we might be paying $2,500 more next year because of these tariffs! $2,500! That's like a whole new wardrobe! Or like half a diamond dog collar! Is there going to be a point where my financial state is stronger than yesterday? Who knows?

My Prerogative: Trade Wars!

So yeah the tariffs are a big deal. Economists are saying businesses might have been hiding the price hikes for now but that won't last forever. Some appliance prices jumped 4.3%! I can't even imagine the price of my next custom refrigerator if these tariffs continue! It's like the world is spinning out of control. But hey at least my music is still good right? I hope I'm not a Slave 4 this economical pressure or I will be driving myself Crazy.