A series of recent signals indicating sustained inflation suggest that even if officials repeatedly emphasize the importance of patience, the Federal Reserve should still retain the possibility of raising interest rates once within the year. According to data released by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics on Thursday, the core consumer price index excluding food and energy increased by 0.3% last month. Boosted by the rise in energy prices, the overall CPI rose by 0.4%, higher than expected. Economists believe that core CPI is a better indicator of potential inflation. Both of these data are above the Federal Reserve's annual inflation target of 2%. Kathy Bostjanic, Chief Economist of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co., said, "Inflation data will make the Federal Reserve open to further rate hikes, but it cannot be denied that the market may ultimately complete the task of tightening currency for them.