[Compensation Question] Is this within normal standard operational procedure? salary doesn’t get bump because it’s “already competitive”, even during 7.8% inflation rate

Company pays competitively already (slightly higher startup pay in Silicon Valley level). Yes, I did join because (not only, but including) of the higher pay.

Few weeks ago company said there won't be an adjustment because it's already paying significantly above average market salary.

I don't have a lot of work experience, so I wanted to ask here.

Is this sometimes expected? I've worked at three non-Silicon Valley companies – two corporate, one startup, and all of them matched inflation with the yearly raise.

Honestly I like the company and people, but even after couple weeks it still feels strange to me.

A part of me is willing to let it go, but a part of me feels like I've been demerited.

Like it's a nice way of saying: "we know you are being paid more so you shouldn't complain".

I'm confused. Yeah I should be grateful I work with good people and pay is good.

But at the same time.. it's 7.8%. For $100k salary, that's $7,800. Company is fully backed by VC, and pumping money into the startup.

Don't really know if they want to risk questioning leadership over 7.8%.

Ah! Maybe I just have entitlement issues. But still, it's work. At the end I need to get compensated.

It's yeah, puzzling.