NEW YORK (Reuters) - A Vanguard executive said on Monday increasing inflation protection in investment portfolios was worthwhile in light of recent data showing rising U.S. price pressures.

For international investors, the strategy was also worth considering because conflicts in the Middle East could lift transportation costs and oil prices, Roger Hallam, global head of rates at the world's second largest asset manager, said in a webinar.

"We do think it's attractive to increase the level of inflation protection within portfolios at present," he said.