AP优卡专家分析：美联储为何连续四次利率不变？逻辑推演

Economic Overview - The Federal Reserve has maintained the federal funds rate in the range of 4.25% to 4.5% for the fourth consecutive time since the end of 2024, reflecting a cautious approach amid economic uncertainties [3][4] - The U.S. economy has shown resilience with a projected GDP growth rate of approximately 2.8% for 2024, despite challenges, and the unemployment rate remained low at 4.2% in December 2024 [4][5] - Inflation remains a concern, with the core PCE price index dropping to 2.1% in early 2024 but rebounding to 2.8% by May 2025, prompting the Fed to adopt a wait-and-see approach [4][5] Monetary Policy Dynamics - The Fed's dual mandate focuses on maximizing employment and maintaining price stability, leading to a shift from aggressive rate hikes to a more cautious stance [5] - Following a series of rate increases from near-zero to a peak of 5.33%, the Fed has since implemented three rate cuts in 2024, bringing the current rate to 4.25% to 4.5% [5] - Economic forecasts for 2025 indicate a GDP growth adjustment from 1.7% to 1.4% and a slight rise in unemployment to 4.5%, highlighting the need for careful policy balancing [5][6] External Influences - Global economic uncertainties, particularly changes in trade policies and tariffs, have impacted the Fed's decision-making process, necessitating a cautious approach to rate adjustments [6] - The Fed's policy contrasts with other central banks, which have initiated rate cuts, reflecting the relative strength of the U.S. economy and the dollar's status as a global reserve currency [6] Market Reactions - Following the Fed's decision on June 18, 2025, U.S. stock markets reacted moderately, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average rising by 0.2% and the S&P 500 slightly declining by 0.03% [7] - Market expectations suggest two potential rate cuts in 2025, with probabilities of maintaining rates in July at 89% and a 61% chance of a cut in September [7] Impact on Consumers - The current interest rate environment, while lower than 2023 peaks, remains high, affecting borrowing costs for consumers, particularly in housing and auto loans [8] - The average 30-year mortgage rate stood at approximately 6.7% in March 2025, significantly higher than 3.0% in 2021, leading to reduced demand in the housing market [8] - High interest rates benefit savers with yields above 4% on high-yield savings accounts, but potential future rate cuts may compress these returns [8] Future Outlook - The Fed's cautious stance is expected to continue into the latter half of 2025, with core inflation projected to rise to 3.1% and unemployment slightly increasing [9] - The Fed's policy will remain flexible, adapting to economic data and external factors, including geopolitical risks and climate change [9]