通胀是央行的一种选择——“美联储主席热门人选”沃什对话实录

Core Viewpoint - Inflation is not inevitable; it is a choice made by central banks, particularly the Federal Reserve, which has deviated from its core mission of maintaining price stability [1][2][20]. Group 1: Federal Reserve's Role and Responsibility - Kevin Warsh emphasizes that the Federal Reserve has the ability to control inflation and that its performance has been inadequate, as evidenced by current inflation levels [1][2][20]. - The central bank's actions, particularly during non-crisis periods, have contributed to fiscal irresponsibility by Congress and the presidency, leading to significant inflation [1][2][37]. - Warsh calls for a thorough post-mortem evaluation of the current inflation crisis, highlighting the erosion of the Federal Reserve's independence and its implications for economic challenges [1][2][45]. Group 2: Historical Context and Economic Perspectives - Warsh draws on the wisdom of economic giants like Milton Friedman, Paul Volcker, and Alan Greenspan, warning against complacency within the Federal Reserve [2][4]. - He believes the U.S. is on the brink of an unprecedented "productivity boom," driven by innovation and the enduring vitality of the American people [2][4]. - The Federal Reserve's historical performance has been criticized, with past failures leading to significant economic downturns, including the Great Depression and the 2008 financial crisis [4][14][27]. Group 3: Quantitative Easing and Its Consequences - The practice of quantitative easing (QE) has led to a significant increase in the Federal Reserve's balance sheet, from $1 trillion to nearly $9 trillion during various crises, raising concerns about long-term consequences [36][41]. - Warsh argues that the continuous use of QE, especially during stable economic periods, has set a dangerous precedent and has blurred the lines of responsibility between fiscal and monetary policy [37][39][41]. - The Federal Reserve's actions during the COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated fiscal irresponsibility, as Congress felt emboldened to increase spending without accountability [41][43][45]. Group 4: Future Outlook and Recommendations - Warsh advocates for self-reform within the Federal Reserve to restore its credibility and effectiveness, emphasizing the need for accountability in both fiscal and monetary policies [2][51][52]. - He warns that the current trajectory of the Federal Reserve could undermine its status as a leading institution, urging a return to a more traditional role focused on price stability [2][51][52]. - The global perception of the U.S. and its institutions is at stake, and a failure to address these issues could diminish the Federal Reserve's influence and effectiveness in the future [52].