(CNN)– Overall inflation was higher in December but core inflation slowed for the first time in months. The overall consumer price index increased more than expected, rising to an annal rate of 2.9%. However, that increase was mostly driven by gas and food prices which are volatile. Energy costs made up a large chunk of overall increase. Food prices also stayed high. But if you take out gas and fuel costs, the pace of price increases was actually slower. Categories: News Tags: U.S. economy