Fed Chair Powell Signals Continued Efforts to Tackle Inflation

Fed Chair Jerome Powell expressed optimism about a continued slowdown in inflation, which could lead to further interest rate cuts. While the Fed remains data-dependent, there's an indication of potential rate adjustments in the upcoming November meeting. The financial markets reacted with mixed signals to his comments.

In a prepared address at the National Association for Business Economics conference in Nashville, Tennessee, Fed Chair Jerome Powell conveyed optimism about a continued slowdown in inflation. This reduction, Powell suggested, could enable the Federal Reserve to cut its benchmark interest rate, eventually reaching a level that no longer constrains economic activity.

Notably, Powell emphasized that the Fed is not on a predetermined path, highlighting the importance of data in shaping future decisions. 'The risks are two-sided, and we will continue to make our decisions meeting by meeting,' he said, stressing a cautious but responsive approach to economic developments.

Market reactions were swift: the S&P 500 saw a slight loss, U.S. bonds exhibited increased yields, and the dollar index gained modestly. Comments from financial strategists suggest that another rate cut is anticipated in the November meeting, contingent on upcoming economic data.

(With inputs from agencies.)