Inflation in June Lower Than Previously Predicted by IFP

Bratislava, July 15 (TASR) - Inflation in Slovakia in June was lower than previously forecast by the Financial Policy Institute (IFP), with the institute now expecting inflation to rise slightly in the remainder of 2024, but not beyond 3 percent. Consumer prices in Slovakia were 2.1 percent higher year-on-year in June, the Statistics Office reported on Monday. "The growth of prices of food and goods slowed down, while the growth of prices of services was the same as in May. Energy prices and imputed rents were still lower than a year ago," said IFP. Thus, food prices were 1.7 percent higher year-on-year, while prices of goods increased by 2 percent and prices of services grew by 5.3 percent. Compared to May, consumer prices remained flat. Energy prices were unchanged, while fuel prices fell significantly. Food prices also fell, with the most significant decreases in meat, soft drinks, vegetables and dairy products. "Prices of services rose in June, with holiday trips, tertiary education and rents rising the most. However, service prices rose across all categories, with the exceptions being insurance and home maintenance services," IFP noted. zel/mcs