The consumer price index for October has risen by 1%, reaching 101.5 points, the Central Bureau of Statistics reported Thursday.
The index has shown an overall 2.4% rise since the beginning of 2007, prompting market analysts to estimate that 2007's inflation rate will reach 2.9%, just below the 3% goal set by the government.
According to CBS data, food prices went up some 1% during October, housekeeping expenses rose 1.4%, electricity prices went up 4.4% and gas added 2.9%. Prices of vehicle maintenance rose as well, as petrol and car oils rose 3% and car rentals added 2.8%.
Considering October's consumer price index rate, Bank of Israel Governor Stanley Fischer is expected to leave interest rates as they are, at 4%.