Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing tension between the Federal Reserve and political pressures from Trump, highlighting Powell's ability to maintain the Fed's independence during the recent FOMC meeting [2][5][15]. Group 1: FOMC Meeting Insights - The focus of the September FOMC meeting was not only on the rate cut magnitude but also on the dynamics within the committee, including new member Milan's rapid inclusion and legal issues faced by member Cook [3]. - Only member Milan supported a 50 basis point cut, while other members, including Waller and Bowman, aligned with the majority [3]. - The median forecast for rate cuts in 2025 was raised from 50 basis points to 75 basis points, with only 9 out of 19 members supporting this adjustment [3]. Group 2: Economic Projections - The FOMC members have become more optimistic about the economy, raising the GDP forecast for 2025 to 1.6% from 1.4% and for 2026 to 1.8% from 1.6% [4]. - The unemployment rate forecast for 2026 was lowered to 4.4% from 4.5%, while the core PCE inflation forecast was increased to 2.6% from 2.4% [4]. Group 3: Market Reactions - The independence of the Fed has led to gold being the biggest loser from the FOMC meeting, as it had previously seen a 10% increase since the Jackson Hole meeting [5]. - Other asset classes experienced limited volatility, with the market's expectations for a series of 25 basis point cuts being met [5]. Group 4: Monetary Policy and Labor Market - Powell expressed concerns about the labor market, introducing the term "risk management cut" to describe the Fed's approach to rate cuts, which may pressure the stock market [9]. - The current labor market faces challenges from reduced immigration and weakening demand, impacting the overall economic outlook [9]. Group 5: Political Pressures - Trump's significant divergence from the Fed's economic growth expectations creates ongoing political pressure, as the Fed's forecasts do not align with Trump's desire for higher growth to alleviate debt pressures [14][15].

Group 1: Federal Reserve's Monetary Policy - In July, the Federal Reserve maintained the federal funds rate in the range of 4.25%-4.5%, citing a "tight balance" in the labor market and potential inflation risks from high tariffs[3][6] - The Fed's assessment of economic uncertainty focuses on rising inflation impacting real GDP growth rather than nominal output or employment issues[3][6] - The threshold for rate cuts remains high, with no clear indication of a September rate cut despite market speculation[3][10] Group 2: Inflation and Economic Outlook - Inflation risks are primarily driven by tariffs, which are seen as a short-term shock, but the long-term impact on the economy requires further evaluation[3][9] - The Fed acknowledges that the current inflationary pressures may just be the beginning of the effects from tariffs on goods inflation[3][9] - The labor market remains solid, with no signs of weakness, but there are downside risks to economic growth[3][11] Group 3: Market Implications - Improved risk appetite and economic outlook may continue to support U.S. equities and long-term Treasury yields, with the dollar index potentially returning to the 100 mark[3][12] - Emerging market assets, excluding China, may face valuation risks due to high tariffs and external demand pressures, despite some trade agreements[3][12]