热点思考 | 金融压力或是美联储“转鸽”的主要矛盾 ——关税“压力测试”系列之六

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the potential impact of tariffs on inflation and the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions, highlighting a divergence in market expectations regarding rate cuts in 2025 due to financial pressures and the risk of stagflation [1][5]. Group 1: Financial Pressure as a Key Factor - In a stagflation environment, the Federal Reserve faces challenges in balancing its dual mandate, with financial pressure emerging as a primary concern [2][48]. - The economic effects of tariffs are contributing to stagflation, as indicated by manufacturing PMI and short-term inflation expectations, suggesting that stagflation risks are increasing [2][48]. - The Federal Reserve's recent stance indicates a preference for a reactive approach rather than a preemptive one, focusing on the economic impact of tariffs and uncertainty in the economic outlook [7][48]. Group 2: Impact of Financial Pressure on Decision-Making - Sustained financial pressure may lead the Federal Reserve to consider policy adjustments, as rising financial pressure often signals economic downturn expectations [3][24]. - Historical instances show that rising financial pressure has been a significant condition for the Federal Reserve to adopt a dovish stance, such as during the 2015-2016 period and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic [3][28]. - The article emphasizes that financial conditions, including credit, valuation, and liquidity, are critical in assessing the overall financial pressure faced by the economy [24][25]. Group 3: Expectations for Rate Cuts in 2025 - The article anticipates that the Federal Reserve may initiate rate cuts in the third quarter of 2025, as the economic narrative shifts from stagflation to recession [4][35]. - The upcoming months will see market focus on the balance between inflation and economic slowdown, with expectations that if inflationary pressures ease while economic downturns persist, the Federal Reserve's primary concerns will shift accordingly [4][35]. - The probability of rate cuts may decrease if financial markets remain stable, but overall financial pressures are expected to trend upward, paving the way for potential rate cuts later in the year [4][35].