New Delhi, Feb. 13 -- Underlying US inflation accelerated slightly at the start of the year, in line with expectations, as a pickup in services costs more than offset stable goods prices.

The core consumer price index, which excludes often-volatile food and energy costs, increased 0.3% from December, the most since August, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data out Friday. At the same time the core CPI rose from a year ago by the least since 2021.

The slight pickup in inflation reflected higher prices for airline fares, personal care, recreation, medical care and communication. However, prices of used cars and trucks, household furnishings and auto insurance decreased last month.

Stock futures fluctuated and Treasury yields fell ...