Chicago Fed President Goolsbee: Uneasy about front-loading rate cuts due to limited inflation data

Core Insights - The Chicago Fed labor market indicator has been introduced to provide alternative insights into the labor market amidst the absence of government data, indicating stability in the job market despite some concerns about payroll job creation [1][5][6] Labor Market Indicators - The unemployment rate is estimated to remain unchanged at 4.36% in October, with a 40% probability of being higher and a 20% probability of being lower [2] - The labor market indicators suggest stability, with low hiring and low firing rates, which is atypical for the beginning of recessions [9][10][18] - Total payroll job creation has shown substantial deterioration, raising questions about its reliability as a business cycle indicator [6][7] Economic Environment - There is ongoing uncertainty regarding tariffs and their impact on businesses, contributing to a cautious outlook on the job market [11][14] - Despite strong GDP numbers and consumer spending, there are concerns about potential job market weakening, particularly for new graduates facing hiring challenges [15][17] Inflation and Rate Cuts - The lack of private sector information on inflation during the government shutdown raises concerns about potential inflation issues developing unnoticed [13] - The current environment of low hiring and low firing may complicate the Federal Reserve's decision-making regarding rate cuts [12][13]