Citi(US:C) Hua Er Jie Jian Wen·2025-09-18 07:57Core Insights - The market may have misinterpreted the Federal Reserve's latest signals, viewing Chairman Powell's "risk management" language as hawkish, while details suggest a dovish stance with potential for two more rate cuts this year [1][2] Group 1: Federal Reserve's Policy Stance - Following a 25 basis point rate cut, Powell attributed the decision to "risk management," which Citigroup interprets as a guide for the market to prepare for future actions [1] - Citigroup believes that Powell's comments indicate a baseline scenario of completing a total of 75 basis points in cuts by year-end [2] - The FOMC's statement included a new emphasis on rising "downside risks to employment," confirming concerns about the labor market [3] Group 2: Economic Projections and Rate Path - The dot plot revealed a downward shift in rate projections, with 10 out of 19 participants lowering their forecasts, suggesting three more 25 basis point cuts this year [3] - Despite a slight increase in the 2026 core PCE inflation forecast, the downward adjustment in the rate path highlights a dovish shift [3] - Citigroup expects the Fed to lower the policy rate to a range of 3.00-3.25% over the coming months, totaling a 125 basis point reduction in this easing cycle [6] Group 3: Employment vs. Inflation Concerns - The focus of the Fed's policy is shifting from inflation risks to employment risks, with Powell noting that hiring slowdowns are due to both supply and demand factors [4][5] - The report emphasizes that the cooling labor market will be a key driver for the Fed's future actions [5]