Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the divergence between the Federal Reserve's actions and the Taylor Rule, highlighting the implications of this deviation on inflation and economic stability in the U.S. [2][3] Group 1: Taylor Rule and Federal Reserve Actions - The Taylor Rule suggests that the Federal Reserve should raise interest rates when inflation is high or the economy is overheating, and lower rates during economic downturns. However, post-pandemic, the Fed deviated significantly from this rule, with inflation reaching 9% while the Fed only raised rates to 5.5%, creating a gap of 5-6 percentage points [2][3]. Group 2: Economic Conditions and Risks - Despite the Fed's deviation from the Taylor Rule, inflation has decreased without a recession, attributed to the Fed's strong reputation as an "inflation fighter." However, this credibility is not infinite, and future inflation may not be managed as easily if the Fed's reputation is compromised [3][4]. - Current macroeconomic indicators show weak growth, with GDP averaging 1.4% in the first half of the year and a decline of 0.5% in Q1, followed by a rebound to 3.3% in Q2. However, consumer spending remains weak, and the labor market is showing signs of decline [4][5]. Group 3: Policy Challenges - The U.S. faces challenges from tariffs and immigration policies that are expected to increase inflation and hinder growth. Historical precedents suggest that high tariffs can lead to economic downturns, similar to the Smoot-Hawley Tariff of 1930 [4][5]. - The tightening of immigration policies is leading to labor shortages, which in turn raises wages and inflation without improving productivity. This combination of tariffs and immigration restrictions is creating a self-inflicted stagflation scenario [5]. Group 4: Market Dynamics and Economic Vulnerability - The stock market's performance is heavily reliant on the wealthiest households, which contribute significantly to consumer spending. A downturn in the stock market could expose vulnerabilities in the broader economy, particularly among middle and lower-income consumers [5][6]. - The article concludes that the U.S. economy is at risk of entering a "policy-induced stagflation trap," driven by tariffs, immigration restrictions, and diminishing fiscal space, alongside the erosion of the Fed's credibility and independence [6].

美联储理事沃勒：如果缺乏信誉，通胀预期将会飙升。 ...