美联储降息大消息！鲍威尔发声

Core Viewpoint - Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell indicated that the U.S. economic outlook remains largely unchanged since the September meeting, with a delicate balance between persistent inflation pressures and a weakening labor market. The market widely anticipates another rate cut at the upcoming meeting at the end of October [2][3]. Economic Outlook - Powell highlighted the current phase of "low hiring, low layoffs" in the labor market, suggesting that the decline in job vacancies may soon be reflected in rising unemployment rates. The unemployment rate rose to 4.3% in August, the highest in a year, and the delay in the September non-farm payroll report due to the government shutdown adds uncertainty to labor market assessments [3][6]. - Economists are increasingly concerned about the risks to employment, with expectations for a rate cut in October being nearly certain. The focus is shifting from prioritizing anti-inflation measures to balancing growth and employment [3][6]. Monetary Policy - Powell emphasized that inflation risks have not been fully resolved, with the core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index rising 2.9% year-over-year, still above the Fed's 2% target. He indicated that the Fed's balance sheet reduction process may be nearing its end, suggesting a potential slowdown in the pace of quantitative tightening to maintain market liquidity [5][6]. - The market expects the Fed to maintain a moderate easing stance in the coming months, with projections indicating a cumulative rate cut of about 50 basis points by the end of the year [6]. Decision-Making Challenges - The government shutdown has disrupted the release of key economic data, complicating the Fed's decision-making process. Powell acknowledged the challenges posed by the lack of data, particularly for October, and stated that the Fed would rely on available public and private sector data to inform its decisions [6][7]. - Analysts suggest that the Fed may be entering a "policy tolerance period," allowing inflation to exceed its target slightly in exchange for a more stable employment environment [7].