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Consumer Price Index

By , About.com Guide

Definition: The consumer price index is one of the most important benchmarks and economic indicators because it measures the prices of goods and services for the consumer. The consumer price index is published monthly by the U.S. Department of Labor and measures inflation. The CPI tracks price changes from the consumer's perspective, whereas the PPI measures it from the seller's / manufacturer's perspective.

To further understand the concept, read What Is Inflation?.

Also Known As: CPI

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