DRAM prices have risen sixfold in a year due to AI demand, adding 0.10 percentage points to CPI, per Binance Research.
A sharp rise in memory chip prices, driven by AI data center demand, could sustain inflationary pressures despite easing energy costs. DRAM prices have surged roughly sixfold over the past year as supply shifts from consumer devices to AI infrastructure.
The supply squeeze is expected to persist, with PC memory supply projected to fall 15% short by 2027 and smartphone supply trailing demand by 12%. While consumer electronics carry a small weight in inflation metrics, the trend adds approximately 0.10 percentage points to the Consumer Price Index.
Oil prices dropped 4% following a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but the chip-driven inflationary pressure remains a separate, less visible threat to markets.