Mexico inflation lower than forecast, but core prices stir concern

• Inflation in Mexico was lower than expected during the first half of December, data showed on Thursday, though core inflation exceeded forecasts, prompting a member of the Central Bank's board to voice concern about underlying price pressures. 
• National statistics agency INEGI said inflation reached 7.45% in early December after averaging 7.37% in November, which was the highest rate in Mexico since early 2001. 
• The core rate of inflation, which strips out some volatile items, hit 5.87%, above Reuters’ analysts' prediction of 5.70%. The initial Reuters consensus forecast for core inflation was 5.68% after the core rate had reached 5.67% in November.

 (Source: Reuters)