Fed governor says current economy is 'calling for large interest rate cuts' to help job market

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. economy requires significant interest rate cuts to alleviate high borrowing costs and support labor market recovery [1][2][7]. Monetary Policy - Federal Reserve governor Stephen Miran advocates for large interest rate cuts to achieve a neutral monetary policy quickly, arguing that current rates are restrictive and detrimental to economic growth [2][5]. - The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) is divided on the necessity of further rate cuts, with discussions ongoing about the impact of a softening labor market and persistent inflation [2][3]. Interest Rate Cuts - Miran suggests a series of 50 basis point cuts, citing recent positive job data and low inflationary risks as justification for this approach [5][6]. - The Fed has already implemented two rate cuts this year, bringing the federal funds rate to a range of 3.75% to 4% [3]. Labor Market and Unemployment - The rising unemployment rate is attributed to tight monetary policy, and Miran expresses concern that failure to cut rates could hinder labor market recovery [6][7]. - Miran emphasizes the need for a forward-looking approach in policy-making to address the challenges in the labor market [7]. Housing Market - Miran highlights the importance of easing mortgage rates, noting that while financial conditions may appear loose due to the stock market, the housing market remains tight [8]. - He believes that cutting interest rates will eventually lead to improved financial conditions in the housing market [8].