Fed Chair Jerome Powell: Inflation Fight Continues, Banking System Safe
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell remains committed to battling inflation, even as the banking system shows stability. Global markets reacted to recent pronouncements where Powell addressed the ongoing efforts to bring inflation back to the Fed's target.
Powell Pleased with Inflation Downtrend, But Cautious
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said he was pleased with how inflation had resumed a downtrend following a rebound at the start of the year but said it was too soon to declare victory. While acknowledging progress, Powell emphasized the need for sustained vigilance.
Further Rate Hikes Possible
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell on Friday called for more vigilance in the fight against inflation, warning that additional interest rate increases could be yet to come. His remarks suggest the Fed is prepared to take further action to curb price increases, if necessary.
Market Reaction: Stocks Fall, Treasury Yields Rise
Global stock indexes mostly fell and Treasury yields rose on Wednesday as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said the fight to lower inflation still has a long way to go. The market response indicates investor concerns about the potential impact of continued rate hikes on economic growth.
The Long Road Ahead: No Trade-Off Yet
Hace 2 días The Fed is not facing any economic trade-off just yet, bolstering officials’ confidence that they can afford to be patient about rate cuts. The focus remains firmly on achieving price stability.
May Meeting & Rate Hike Considerations
At the May meeting, Jerome H. Powell, the Federal Reserve Chair, outlined the rationale behind recent policy decisions. Following the vital decision from the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates by another 25 bps, Fed Chair Jerome Powell spoke on the current inflation fight and assures the public of the commitment to price stability.
Anchored Expectations: Key to Success
Disinflation while preserving labor market strength is only possible with anchored inflation expectations, which reflect the public's confidence that the central bank will deliver on its inflation targets. This confidence is crucial for the Fed's strategy.
Inflation Target and Potential Rate Cuts
Chair Jerome Powell said the Federal Reserve is becoming more convinced that inflation is headed back to its 2% target and said the Fed would cut rates before the pace of inflation is fully under control, if warranted by economic conditions. However, this remains contingent on further data and economic developments.
Current Rate Range and Previous Actions
The decision leaves the Fed’s benchmark short-term rate at a range of 4.25% to 4.5% for a third straight meeting. The central bank lowered the rate by a percentage point late last year as a measure to stimulate the economy during the pandemic's peak.
In conclusion, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's message is clear: the fight against inflation continues, the banking system is currently safe, and the Fed remains data-dependent in its approach to monetary policy.