Dec core PCE price index as-expected +0.2%..>

US DATA: Dec core PCE price index as-expected +0.2% (unrounded +0.177%) 

after unrevised +0.1% in Nov, but y/y rate stayed at +1.5%.

- Total PCE price index only +0.1% (unrounded +0.110%), so y/y rate 

+1.7% vs +1.8% in Nov. Overall, PCE inflation remains under control.

- Pers income +0.4% vs +0.3% expected, while nominal PCE as-expected 

+0.4% and real PCE +0.3%, so there should be little market movement on 

this data.

- Dec savings rate fell to 2.4% from 2.5% in Nov, the smallest since 

September 2005, when it was 2.3%. The low saving rate appears to be 

supporting PCE, as consumers feel confident about the economy and the 

job market.

- Income was lifted by a +0.5% gain in wages and salaries and continued 

gains in return on assets, particularly interest. Rental income and 

transfer receipts were up modestly, while proprietors income fell.