Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller said on Wednesday that recent weak inflation data supports the Fed’s pause in lowering its short-term interest rate target.
key quotes
There is no rush to lower policy rates.
The Fed may need to maintain its current interest rate target for longer than expected.
More inflation developments need to be seen before a rate cut can be supported. At least several months of data are needed to determine whether inflation will reach 2%.
Fed still expected to cut interest rates later this year
Strong economic data gives Fed room to assess economic data
Economic data suggests fewer rate cuts may be needed this year
The economy is growing at a healthy pace
Despite inflation progress, recent economic data has been disappointing
Economic data shows uncertainty about employment situation
The Fed has made great progress in lowering inflation
Wage pressure has eased
Unsure whether productivity can maintain its current strong momentum
Economic conditions support the Fed’s cautious approach to interest rate policy
The probability of an interest rate hike is very small.
It is unclear whether the neutral rate has changed.