Fed's Bowman says decisive rate cuts needed to offset labor market risks

Core Viewpoint - Federal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman emphasizes the need for decisive interest rate cuts to address the fragility in the labor market and to support job growth [1][2]. Labor Market Conditions - Recent data indicates a more fragile labor market, prompting Bowman to call for proactive measures from the Federal Open Market Committee to address decreasing labor market dynamism [2]. - Bowman expresses concern that the Federal Reserve may already be behind in responding to deteriorating labor market conditions, suggesting that policy adjustments may need to occur at a faster pace and larger scale if current trends continue [2]. Interest Rate Adjustments - The Federal Open Market Committee recently reduced the overnight interest rate target range by 25 basis points to between 4% and 4.25% to bolster the job market, despite ongoing inflation concerns [2][3]. - One Fed governor advocated for a larger rate cut, but Bowman supported the 25-basis point easing, having previously dissented in favor of a rate cut at the end of July [3]. Inflation and Tariffs - Bowman downplays concerns regarding the impact of President Trump's trade tariffs on persistent inflation, stating that when tariffs are excluded, price pressures remain close to the Fed's target [4]. - She argues that Fed policy should prioritize addressing the side of the mandate that shows signs of deterioration, specifically focusing on supporting the job market [4]. Balance Sheet Management - Bowman advocates for maintaining a smaller balance sheet for the Federal Reserve, suggesting that a reduced balance sheet provides flexibility to respond to future economic challenges [5]. - She expresses a preference for an all-Treasury balance sheet with a tilt toward shorter-dated holdings, while noting the possibility of adjusting to longer-dated bonds without increasing the overall size of the holdings [5].