Powell Signals Potential Rate Cuts Pending Inflation Control

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated on Wednesday that while the Fed anticipates reducing its key interest rate within the year, it seeks further proof of inflation steadily reverting to its 2% goal before taking action. His remarks to a House committee were consistent with his previous comments at a January 31 news conference. Nevertheless, subsequent reports have indicated a rise in inflation from December to January, alongside a boost in employment, signaling that the economy continues to be robust. Despite the recent inflationary uptick, Powell remained unperturbed, highlighting that, according to the Fed’s preferred measure, inflation has significantly moderated over the last year, even though it still surpasses the Fed’s target.