Monetary Policy Report, July 5, 2024

Economic Overview - The federal funds rate target range is maintained at 5.25% to 5.50%, reflecting a balance of risks to employment and inflation[3] - The unemployment rate was at a historically low level of 4.0% in May 2024, with significant employment gains across various sectors[43] - Real GDP growth moderated in the first quarter of 2024, primarily due to declines in net exports and inventory investment[58] Inflation Trends - The 12-month change in housing services prices decreased from over 8% in May 2023 to 5.5% in May 2024, indicating easing inflation[35] - Core goods prices saw a decline of 1.1% over the 12 months ending in May 2024, reflecting improvements in supply-demand imbalances[14] - The PCE price index for food prices slowed from a peak of 12.2% in August 2022 to just 1.2% in May 2024[13] Labor Market Dynamics - Payroll employment gains averaged 248,000 per month in the first five months of 2024, with over 60% of industries expanding their employment[68] - Nominal wage growth remains above levels consistent with 2% inflation, although it has slowed recently[56] - Employment disparities across demographic groups have narrowed, but significant gaps remain, particularly for prime-age women and minority groups[52] Financial Stability - The financial system is reported to be sound, with the credit-to-GDP ratio near a two-decade low, although vulnerabilities are emerging in asset markets and commercial real estate[58] - Delinquency rates for small business loans and credit cards have increased, indicating potential stress in the financial sector[58]