The consumer price index cooled unexpectedly in November. But economists said the data should be interpreted with some caution due to the government shutdown.

November's CPI report is expected to show the annual inflation rate at 3.1%, according to economists polled by Dow Jones.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Thursday a 2.7% annual CPI increase last month short of the 3.1% projected by Wall Street.

The consumer price index cooled unexpectedly in November. But economists said the data should be interpreted with some caution due to the government shutdown.

Thursday saw the release of a much lighter-than-expected inflation report for November, and economists are already questioning its significance.