TMGM:FOMC今年票委发话4月低通胀或“不算数”！

Core Viewpoint - The statements made by Chicago Fed President Goolsbee have added uncertainty to the Federal Reserve's policy direction, emphasizing the need for more time and data to accurately assess inflation and economic trends [1][4]. Economic Data Analysis - The April CPI data shows a year-over-year increase of 2.3%, the smallest in four years, but this is significantly influenced by a 1.2% month-over-month decline in food prices, indicating that short-term fluctuations may not be sustainable [3][5]. - The core CPI, excluding food and energy, remains at a year-over-year growth rate of 2.8%, suggesting persistent inflationary pressures in the service sector [3][5]. Federal Reserve's Policy Stance - The Federal Reserve has maintained interest rates since December, with policymakers' cautious stance closely linked to the Trump administration's tariff policies [4][6]. - Despite the April inflation data, the Fed's logic for maintaining a wait-and-see approach remains intact due to core inflation consistently exceeding the 2% target and the potential lagging effects of tariff policies on prices [4][5]. Tariff Impact and Market Expectations - The recent increase in tariffs by the Trump administration, affecting approximately $250 billion worth of Chinese goods, could lead to higher consumer prices and force companies to adjust pricing strategies, with economists expecting these effects to manifest in the coming months [5][6]. - Market expectations for interest rate cuts have shifted, with the probability of a cut this year decreasing from 70% to 55%, reflecting a reassessment of tariff risks [5][6]. Divergence within the Federal Reserve - There is a growing divide within the Fed, with some members advocating for patience to fully understand the impact of tariffs, while others express concern over slowing economic growth and favor preemptive rate cuts [6]. - The upcoming economic data releases, including non-farm payrolls and retail sales, are likely to intensify this divergence ahead of the June FOMC meeting [6].