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Some economists are picking inflation is at its crest, and with an easing in price rises expected this year, albeit amid the prospect of further interest rate rises and an economic recession. The latest quarterly Consumer Price Index - or CPI figures are out this morning. Inflation numbers for the final three months of last year are widely expected to render the annual inflation rate fractionally lower at 7.1 percent (from 7.2 percent) - short of the Reserve Bank's November forecast of a 7.5 percent annual rate. But a reduction in prices at the pump before Christmas have been countered by high grocery bills and an on-going rise in household costs. For a preview of the CPI announcement Kathryn is joined by Kiwi Bank Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr who is predicting inflation is close to its peak, also FINCAP manager of Bay Financial Mentors in Tauranga, Shirley McCombe.
