Consultancy firm Empiria reported that in February 2026, the poorest 10% of households faced 3.3% inflation, compared to 2.9% for the richest 10%. The gap stems from the heavier weight of food and housing in low-income baskets. INDEC confirmed a general monthly inflation rate of 2.9%.
Empiria Consultores' report, led by Hernán Lacunza, notes that February 2026 inflation was regressive. “In February, the poorest 10% of households had 3.3% inflation while the richest 10% had 2.9%,” the document states. The disparity arises from basket composition: food and beverages account for 32% of spending in the poorest decile (versus 16% in the richest), and housing with electricity tariffs 18% versus 12% in wealthier homes, based on the 2017/2018 National Household Expenditure Survey (ENGHo). Top increases were in housing and electricity (6.6%) and food (3.3%), while alcoholic beverages rose 0.6% and clothing stayed flat. Core inflation hit 3.1%, up from January's 2.6%, with regulated prices at 4.3%. The bimonthly total reached 5.9%, 1.2 points above 2025, and year-on-year 33.1%. Historically, the gap between rich and poor stayed under 1% since 2018, but since November 2023 it was slightly higher for the rich. Empiria forecasts annual inflation around 30% for 2026, similar to 2025.
