This Friday marks the release of the first federal update on inflation since the onset of the government shutdown, which has now lasted over three weeks.

The consumer price index (CPI) report, a pivotal indicator of inflation, is scheduled for publication at 8:30 a.m. EDT. This crucial data is arriving over a week behind schedule after the Bureau of Labor Statistics recalled furloughed staff to finalize the report.

The findings from the CPI report are essential for determining adjustments to Social Security’s Cost of Living, known as COLA.