Powell: Inflation for goods picked up, reflecting effects of tariffs

Core Viewpoint - The Federal Open Market Committee has decided to lower the policy interest rate by a quarter percentage point to support employment and inflation goals, while also initiating purchases of shorter-term Treasury securities to maintain an ample supply of reserves [2] Economic Activity - Economic activity is expanding at a moderate pace, with solid consumer spending and continued growth in business fixed investment [3] - The housing sector remains weak, and the temporary federal government shutdown has negatively impacted economic activity, though growth is expected to rebound next quarter [4] Labor Market - Despite delays in official employment data, evidence indicates low levels of layoffs and hiring, with perceptions of job availability declining [5] - The unemployment rate has edged up to 4.4%, with job gains slowing significantly, attributed to a decline in labor force growth due to lower immigration and participation [5][6] - The median projection for the unemployment rate is 4.5% at the end of this year, with a slight decrease expected thereafter [6] Inflation - Inflation has eased from mid-2022 highs but remains elevated, with total PCE prices rising 2.8% over the 12 months ending in September [7] - Core PCE prices also rose 2.8%, with inflation for goods increasing due to tariffs, while disinflation in services continues [8] - The median projection for total PCE inflation is 2.9% this year and 2.4% next year, with a long-term goal of 2% [9]