Rising memory chip prices have contributed roughly 30 basis points to core PCE inflation, with May 2026 core PCE at 3.4% as AI demand strains supply.

The Fed's June meeting minutes cited "AI-related price pressures" as one driver of higher core goods inflation.

"the combined effects of AI-induced increases in memory, software, and electricity prices will add to 0.5% by year-end."

Rising memory chip prices have contributed roughly 30 basis points to core PCE inflation, with May 2026 core PCE at 3.4% as AI demand strains supply.

AI-driven demand for high-bandwidth memory is squeezing Apple and PC makers, with data centers consuming 70% of high-end DRAM supply and prices rising