Goldman Sachs’ Jonny Fine: The Fed will cut rates on Wednesday

Monetary Policy Outlook - Goldman Sachs anticipates the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates and believes they should do so [2] - The firm expects the Fed to be hawkish in its rhetoric following the rate cut but suggests they should be patient and await official data on the labor market [2] - Goldman Sachs suspects the labor market is weaker than it appears and anticipates a deeper easing cycle from the Fed than the market currently expects [3] - The firm believes the Fed will quickly counteract negative pressures in the labor market and move into a more easing posture early in the new year [4] Labor Market Analysis - Goldman Sachs acknowledges mixed messages in job openings reports and unemployment claims but suspects labor market weakness will become apparent in 2026 [5][3] - The firm anticipates productivity gains from technology and AI adoption will necessitate easier monetary policy to assist labor market rebalancing [6] Economic Growth and Inflation - Goldman Sachs is bullish on growth in 2026, anticipating high GDP and high unemployment, requiring lower interest rates [7][8] - The firm expects productivity gains to lower the cost of goods sold, benefiting consumers and margins, and does not anticipate stubbornly high inflation [7][6] - Goldman Sachs views AI and technological advances as a significant unlock of productivity, benefiting consumers and the real economy [8][9] Fiscal Implications - Goldman Sachs notes that great growth and lower interest rates would be beneficial for the US government's fiscal balance [9]