美联储政策失灵？K 型经济下，2026 年降息能否救美国？

Core Economic Insights - The Federal Reserve's acknowledgment of a K-shaped economy highlights the disparity between low-income consumers, who are downgrading their consumption, and high-income individuals, who continue to spend lavishly [3][5] - The aggressive interest rate hikes initiated in 2022 have led to a significant divide in consumer spending, with low-income groups experiencing stagnation or decline in credit card spending, while high-income groups drive overall credit card consumption growth [5][7] Consumer Behavior - Research indicates that a 1% increase in the federal funds rate results in a 0.9% decrease in credit card spending, disproportionately affecting lower-income consumers who face a twofold reduction in spending compared to higher-income individuals [7] - As of November 2025, the 30-day delinquency rate on credit cards reached 4.8%, the highest since the 2008 financial crisis, while the bad debt rate for buy-now-pay-later services surged to 9.5% [7] Corporate Sector Dynamics - Capital expenditures in the AI sector are primarily concentrated among tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, which possess substantial cash reserves, while small businesses struggle under high-interest rates [8][10] - The National Federation of Independent Business reported that small business confidence has remained below the 50-year average for 22 consecutive months, with credit access at its most challenging level since the European debt crisis in 2012 [10] Wealth Distribution and Policy Implications - The wealth concentration in the U.S. is stark, with the top 1% holding over 32% of the nation's wealth, while the bottom 50% possess only 2.5% [10][12] - The Federal Reserve's interest rate policies have inadvertently exacerbated wealth inequality, benefiting wealthy savers while placing a heavier burden on low-income borrowers [12][18] Future Outlook - A potential interest rate cut in the first half of 2026 is anticipated, but it is expected to be cautious and gradual rather than aggressive [14][16] - The impact of any rate cuts will likely be uneven, providing relief to lower-income consumers and small businesses while potentially inflating asset values for the wealthy [16][18] Structural Solutions - Long-term solutions to the K-shaped economy require fiscal policy changes, including a fairer tax system and targeted social transfers, which are currently hindered by political divisions [18][20]