10月议息：鲍威尔的“温柔一刀”

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent actions and statements from the Federal Reserve, highlighting the unexpected hawkish tone from Chairman Powell despite a rate cut and the announcement to pause balance sheet reduction, leading to uncertainty in future rate cuts [4][6][9]. Summary by Sections Federal Reserve Actions - The Federal Reserve cut rates by 25 basis points in October and announced a pause in balance sheet reduction in December, which alleviated some liquidity and economic pressures [4][6]. - The market's expectation for a December rate cut decreased from 90% to around 60% following Powell's hawkish comments, causing a short-term drop in gold and U.S. stocks, while bond yields rose [4][20]. Employment and Inflation - The combination of declining employment and moderate inflation justified the October rate cut, with private sector data indicating a softening labor market [6][9]. - Future rate cuts remain uncertain, as internal divisions within the Fed are growing, with some members advocating for a pause in rate cuts to assess economic conditions [9][10]. Economic Risks - The ongoing government shutdown poses risks to economic and employment data, which could influence the Fed's decision-making regarding future rate cuts [10][13]. - The potential impact of tariffs and the effect of rate cuts on inflation, particularly in sensitive sectors like real estate, are also critical factors to monitor [13][15]. Balance Sheet and Liquidity - The Fed plans to end its balance sheet reduction on December 1, with the balance sheet having shrunk from a peak of $9 trillion to $6.6 trillion, leading to liquidity pressures in the banking system [15][18]. - The increase in Treasury issuance since the debt ceiling was lifted has further tightened market liquidity, necessitating the halt of quantitative tightening to provide a buffer [18][20]. Market Implications - The combination of pausing balance sheet reduction and rate cuts creates a "double easing" effect, which may support the real economy but could also lead to a slowdown in the upward momentum of interest-sensitive assets due to prior extreme pricing of easing expectations [20].