The Consumer Price Index report in North Carolina has remained steady in February, with prices rising 2.4% over the year. However, this does not include potential shocks to the economy due to the Iran conflict. Economists believe this is a positive sign about inflation levels prior to the war. The Federal Reserve is set to meet next week to monitor how the economy reacts to the rise in oil prices. Inflation is also a concern for businesses like restaurants and businesses like Element Gastropub.