鲍威尔敞开降息大门：就业下行风险显著，或接近停止缩表

Core Viewpoint - The Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell indicated a potential interest rate cut this month due to a deteriorating labor market, despite the impact of the government shutdown on economic assessments [1][2][24]. Economic Outlook - Powell noted that since the last Federal Reserve meeting, the employment and inflation outlooks have not changed significantly, with economic growth appearing slightly more robust than expected [1][24]. - The unemployment rate remained low in August, but wage growth has slowed considerably, partly due to a decrease in immigration and labor force participation [1][24][25]. - There are increasing risks to employment in a labor market that is described as lacking vitality and somewhat weak [1][24]. Monetary Policy Actions - Powell emphasized the risks associated with balancing the dual mandate of employment and inflation, stating that a rapid rate cut could leave inflation targets unmet, while a slow cut could harm the job market [2][24]. - The Federal Reserve may halt the reduction of its balance sheet in the coming months, as it approaches a level deemed sufficient for reserves [4][18]. - Powell acknowledged signs of tightening liquidity but assured that the Fed would act cautiously to avoid a repeat of the "taper tantrum" experienced in September 2019 [5][19]. Labor Market Insights - The hiring pace has slowed, and the number of job vacancies is decreasing, which may lead to a rise in the unemployment rate [2][24]. - Powell did not provide specific figures for the equilibrium point of employment growth necessary to maintain stable unemployment rates, but noted that the unemployment rate has significantly decreased [2][24]. Inflation and Price Pressures - Current data suggests that rising commodity prices are primarily due to tariffs rather than broader inflationary pressures [1][25]. - The core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) inflation rate was reported at 2.9% over the past 12 months, slightly higher than earlier in the year, driven by increases in core goods inflation [25]. Federal Reserve's Balance Sheet Management - The Federal Reserve's balance sheet, which stood at $6.5 trillion as of October 8, consists mainly of $2.4 trillion in Federal Reserve notes and $3 trillion in reserves [11]. - The Fed plans to adjust its asset holdings, potentially increasing short-term assets, which some investors view as a form of implicit quantitative easing [7][20]. - Powell defended the effectiveness of the reserve system, stating that it is crucial for controlling interest rates and ensuring financial stability [18][21].