Fed Chair Powell suggests rate cuts are likely to continue

Federal Reserve Policy - The yield on the 10-year Treasury note fell below 4%, reaching its lowest level since September 17th [1] - Fed Chair Powell suggested, but did not explicitly state, that rate cuts are likely to continue [3] - The Fed judged it appropriate to take another step toward a more neutral policy stance at its September meeting [4] - Powell indicated the Fed might soon halt the reduction of its balance sheet (QT) due to signs of tightening liquidity conditions [6] - Powell's comments did not decisively endorse future rate cuts, but he also did not push back against market expectations for two cuts this year [8] Economic Outlook - Rising downside risks to employment have shifted the Fed's assessment of the balance of risks [4] - Data suggests higher downside risks for employment and inflation, primarily due to tariffs rather than a broader inflation issue [5] - Prior to the shutdown, data indicated the economy was on a firmer growth path [5] - The Fed is monitoring liquidity conditions, including repo rates [6] Market Observations - The market reacted positively to Powell's comments regarding the potential halt of balance sheet reduction [6] - The market firmly expects two rate cuts this year [8]