Fed minutes show September rate hike still on the table
The likelihood of the Federal Reserve raising interest rates next month has diminished following a set of soft inflation and employment data. But the minutes of policymakers' last meeting suggest...
The Federal Reserve's September rate hike remains a possibility, according to minutes from the central bank's July meeting. While softer inflation and employment data have decreased the likelihood of a rate increase, the minutes reveal a more hawkish shift among policymakers. Three officials voted to raise rates in July, the largest single dissenting bloc since September 2016.
Though the current split was 8-4, more than three officials could vote for a hike at the September meeting. Several participants favor a 25 basis point increase, and some officials remain open to rate hikes. Governor Christopher Waller and Philadelphia Fed President Anna Paulson have both indicated their willingness to raise rates.
Despite historical precedent suggesting lower odds, the political calendar and persistently high energy prices keep September in play. The upcoming July PCE inflation report and July employment data will provide crucial insights for Fed-watchers.
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