FX.co ★ Italian Inflation Rate Hits 15-Month Low

Italy's annual inflation rate slightly decreased to 1% in January 2026, down from 1.2% in December, reflecting market forecasts, according to preliminary data. This is the lowest figure since October 2024, coinciding with the implementation of the ECOICOP version 2 classification and the introduction of a new 2025=100 reference base for measuring consumer prices. Food prices increased more rapidly, with both unprocessed (2.5%) and processed items (2.2%) contributing to the rise. There was also a notable acceleration in the costs associated with housing services (4.4%), tobacco (3.3%), and services related to recreation, culture, and personal care (3%). On a monthly scale, consumer prices observed a slight increase to 0.4%, up from 0.2% in December, aligning with market projections. Meanwhile, core inflation, which removes the impact of energy and fresh food prices, remained consistent at 1.8%, and the rate excluding just energy was 1.9%. The EU-harmonized inflation rate marginally declined to 1% in January 2026, compared to 1.2% in the previous month.