Fed's Waller Signals Caution On Interest-Rate Cuts: 'Latest Inflation Data Was Disappointing' - Invesco DB USD Index Bullish Fund ETF (ARCA:UUP), SPDR S&P 500 (ARCA:SPY)
- Federal Reserve Governor Christopher J. Waller raised concerns about disappointing inflation data while noting solid economic growth in the U.S.
- He highlighted that real GDP grew at a 2.2% annual rate in the first half of 2024, but inflation progress has been uneven.
- Waller's remarks indicate a cautious approach to interest rate cuts, reflecting ongoing economic challenges.
In the United States, Federal Reserve Governor Christopher J. Waller expressed concerns regarding recent inflation data during a speech on October 14, 2024. He highlighted that while the economy is on solid footing, with real GDP growth at a 2.2% annual rate in the first half of 2024, the latest inflation figures have been disappointing and show uneven progress towards the Fed's 2% target. Waller noted that household resources are generally in good shape, although lower-income groups are still facing financial challenges. Waller's remarks also touched on the jobs market, which remains healthy despite expectations of slowing payroll gains. He cautioned that upcoming job reports may be skewed due to temporary disruptions from recent hurricanes and a strike at Boeing. Regarding inflation, Waller expressed concern over a likely increase in personal consumption expenditures (PCE) inflation, the Fed's preferred measure. He acknowledged the progress made in reducing inflation over the past year and a half but emphasized that this progress has been inconsistent. Market reactions to Waller's comments showed little change in interest-rate expectations, with the odds of a 25-basis-point rate cut remaining steady at 86%. The U.S. dollar index rose, and the S&P 500 index reached record highs, reflecting investor sentiment amid the ongoing economic developments.