Chair of the Federal Reserve Jerome Powell is set to address US lawmakers on Wednesday regarding the state of the economy and the potential for interest rate cuts at the onset of the US presidential election year.
The underlying foundation for his speech appears generally positive: unemployment persists at a low rate of 3.7%, inflation figures are nearing the Fed's 2% target, and the economy continues its expansion despite the tight credit conditions imposed by the central bank.
Yet, the path ahead remains uncertain, given recent inflation data that has shown more stability than anticipated in certain aspects. Some members of the Fed and independent analysts have voiced concerns that the US economy still maintains significant strength, hindering the full alleviation of inflationary pressures. This argument opposes the notion of initiating interest rate cuts as promptly as previously expected.
Powell is scheduled to commence his two-day speech before members of the House Financial Services Committee at 10 a.m. ET (3:00 p.m. GMT). During this session, he will elaborate on his confidence that inflationary pressures will diminish without detriment to the labor market. Additionally, he will discuss how the window for a soft landing scenario may be narrowing.
On Monday, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta Raphael Bostic cautioned that the best-case outcome "is hardly assured," expressing apprehension that excessive optimism among businesses might trigger increased spending and a resurgence of inflation if the Fed implements rate cuts prematurely.
These sentiments echo those of the former Federal Reserve Chairman, Alan Greenspan, who, three decades ago, cautioned against "irrational exuberance," potentially inflating a bubble in tech stocks.
The current dilemma facing the Fed is that despite maintaining rates at 5.25%-5.5% since July, the highest level in over two decades, overall financial conditions are deteriorating, and asset prices are climbing in anticipation of an economic downturn. This dynamic could complicate the Fed's efforts to combat inflation.
During his testimony before the House and subsequent hearing before the Senate Banking Committee on Thursday, investors will closely monitor Powell's attempts to adjust his forecasts for rate cuts, currently slated for early June, and underscore that the battle against inflation is ongoing.
Many economists speculate that any alterations to the Fed's outlook would likely entail smaller, delayed rate reductions. The shift in the tone of speeches will be evident.
However, this week's hearings will contrast with Powell's previous appearance before Congress last June, when inflation still exceeded the Fed's 2% target, and policymakers anticipated further rate hikes. The final rate increase is expected to be ratified next month.
Login in Personal Account
105