U.S. inflation accelerated during spring due to tariffs and rising energy costs. The Federal Reserve's report shows inflation remains significantly above its target. The labor market has largely stabilized, with demand and supply broadly in balance. Economic growth was moderate, supported by artificial intelligence infrastructure investment. Policymakers remain divided on the outlook for future interest rate adjustments.

The Federal Reserve's July 2026 report cites tariffs, the Iran conflict, and AI spending as key inflation drivers, with rates held steady at 3.5%-3.75%.

Job vacancies have been "flat," the report noted, layoffs have been similarly "subdued"