Federal Reserve Chair Signals Imminent Rate Cuts to Protect Job Market

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell indicated a shift towards interest rate cuts, emphasizing it is time for policy adjustment to prevent further job market cooling. He expressed optimism about reaching the Fed’s 2% inflation target and outlined plans dependent on economic data. The policy change comes ahead of a crucial U.S. presidential election.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell endorsed beginning interest rate cuts imminently, warning that further cooling in the job market would be detrimental. Speaking at the Kansas City Fed's annual conference in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Powell expressed confidence that inflation is nearing the central bank's 2% target. He stated, 'The time has come for policy to adjust,' signaling clear intentions for policy changes based on upcoming data and risks.

The Fed's pivot from combating inflation to protecting employment signifies a new chapter, especially with an important U.S. presidential election approaching. Powell mentioned that inflation is on a 'sustainable path' back to 2%, down from approximately 7% during the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted the 'unmistakable' slowdown in the labor market, citing increased risks to employment.

Analysts anticipate the Fed will announce its first rate cut at its September policy meeting. Most forecast a quarter-percentage-point reduction, though Powell's emphasis on the job market raises the potential for a larger cut. The Fed's policy rate, currently at 5.25%-5.50%, leaves 'ample room' for reducing borrowing costs. Financial markets have started to price in a higher likelihood of a more significant rate cut, with expectations that the policy rate could drop to 3.00%-3.25% by the end of 2025.

(With inputs from agencies.)