Frances Newton appeared on NewsNation on July 15, 2026, to discuss the latest inflation report, Federal Reserve policy, and what rising prices mean for consumers and the broader economy. She explained how oil price volatility, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and Treasury yields continue to influence inflation, while highlighting the difference between short-term market events and underlying economic trends.

The conversation also examined the Federal Reserve’s approach to interest rates, the impact of inflation on mortgages, credit cards, and household budgets, and why policymakers must balance slowing inflation with the cost of borrowing. Frances provided insight into how these economic forces affect both financial markets and everyday Americans.

Key Questions from This Segment

What is the Consumer Price Index (CPI)?

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures changes in the prices consumers pay for goods and services. It tracks a broad basket of everyday items, including food, housing, transportation, and medical care, and reports how much that basket costs from month to month. It is one of the primary indicators used to track inflation and helps guide Federal Reserve policy decisions.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – CPI Home

Why do oil prices affect inflation?

Oil prices influence transportation, manufacturing, and energy costs throughout the economy. Transportation is the largest consumer of petroleum in the U.S., using it mainly as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel to move people and goods. When oil prices rise, businesses in these industries often face higher operating costs, which can contribute to higher consumer prices.

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration – Use of energy for transportation

How do Federal Reserve interest rate decisions affect consumers?

Changes in interest rates influence borrowing costs for mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, and business financing. The Fed sets a benchmark rate called the federal funds rate, the rate banks charge each other for overnight loans. That rate ripples out to affect what banks charge everyday borrowers. Higher rates generally make borrowing more expensive, while lower rates can encourage spending and investment.

Source: CNBC – What is the federal funds rate?

Why are Treasury yields important?

Treasury yields reflect borrowing costs across the economy and influence mortgage rates, corporate financing, and investor expectations. The 10-year Treasury yield is widely treated as the key benchmark for U.S. government borrowing, and lenders and companies typically price their own borrowing above it to cover their added risk. Rising yields can increase financing costs for both businesses and consumers.

Source: CNBC – U.S. Treasury yields rise as Wall Street monitors Middle East tensions

How does inflation affect everyday household finances?

Inflation can increase the cost of groceries, housing, fuel, healthcare, and other everyday expenses. Recent government price data has shown these categories climbing together during periods of high inflation, squeezing household budgets. At the same time, higher interest rates used to combat inflation may also increase borrowing costs, making financial planning more challenging for households.

Source: CNBC – See how much prices have increased since 2020, in one chart

Sources: The information above is based on publicly available resources from government agencies and industry organizations. Links are provided for educational purposes to help readers learn more about the topics discussed during this interview. Please note that each link will send you to a different website.

The posted video is a media appearance by Frances Newton on a third-party television program. The views and opinions expressed are those of the speaker as of the date of the broadcast and are subject to change without notice.

This segment is being reposted for informational purposes only. The content was prepared for a general audience and should not be considered investment, tax, or legal advice, a recommendation to buy or sell any security, or a solicitation to engage in any investment strategy. The statements made during this broadcast reflect general market commentary and do not take into account the specific investment objectives, financial situation, or needs of any individual investor.

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Frances is a nationally recognized economic strategist, market analyst, financial advisor, educator, and frequent contributor across national financial media, including Fox Business, Bloomberg, Yahoo Finance, CBS, and Schwab Network. Subscribe to receive commentary on monetary policy, market trends, economic cycles, and the forces shaping today’s global economy.

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