如何理解物价指数与居民感受之间的“温差”？

Core Insights - The Consumer Price Index (CPI) in China has shown a decline, with a month-on-month decrease of 0.2% and a year-on-year decrease of 0.1% in May, while the core CPI, excluding food and energy, increased by 0.6% [1][4] - There is a discrepancy between the CPI statistics and individual consumer perceptions of price changes, which can be attributed to differences in consumption patterns, frequency of purchases, and the comparison of price points [2][3] Group 1: CPI and Consumer Perception - CPI is a comprehensive statistical indicator that reflects the price level changes of various consumer goods and services, covering eight major categories and 268 basic classifications [1] - Individual consumer experiences of price changes can vary significantly based on their consumption structure and regional differences, leading to a "temperature difference" in perception [2] - Consumers are generally more sensitive to price changes in frequently purchased essential goods, while changes in prices of infrequently purchased items may go unnoticed [2] Group 2: Impacts of Price Changes - A moderate decline in prices can lower consumer costs and enhance purchasing power, allowing consumers to allocate more funds to other areas such as cultural and tourism consumption [3][4] - However, sustained price declines can lead to negative economic consequences, including reduced investment, delayed consumer spending, and potential increases in unemployment, creating a feedback loop that further suppresses demand and prices [4] - Maintaining a moderate increase in prices is beneficial for economic stability, and recent policies aimed at boosting effective demand have shown positive results, with retail sales growing by 6.4% year-on-year in May, the highest monthly growth rate in 2024 [4][5]