Seoul stocks open higher despite first Fed rate hike in over 3 yrs

The Federal Reserve recently raised interest rates by a quarter point, marking its first increase in three years. Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh stated that the move would not immediately lower individual prices, meaning Americans may continue to face pressure at grocery stores and gas stations. However, Warsh did not indicate whether additional hikes are on the horizon, preferring to base decisions on forthcoming economic data.

Economists and analysts are closely watching the Fed's actions and predicting future rate increases. Justin Wolfers, a professor at the University of Michigan, expressed satisfaction with the decision, highlighting that it signals Fed Chair Kevin Warsh is more serious in his approach compared to previous instances. By being silent, Wolfers argued, Warsh aims to keep market focus on economic conditions rather than the Fed itself.

Bill Banfield, the chief business officer at Rocket Mortgage, noted that the housing market remains solid, with elevated rates putting affordability to the test. Buyers, especially those accustomed to the competitive market of recent years, now face a more negotiable landscape. Heather Long, the chief economist for the Navy Federal Credit Union, stated that the Federal Reserve's move indicates a mid-cycle adjustment of 2 or 3 rate hikes.

Warsh's reluctance to provide forward guidance suggests the Fed is committed to taking decisive action early to curb inflation.

Former New York Fed senior analyst Jerry Tempelman pointed out that the inflation experienced earlier this summer has not continued, implying that the Fed's actions are necessary. He emphasized that Warsh did not have a clear way to explain the Fed's monetary policy stance without raising rates. Jacob Robbins, an assistant professor of economics at the University of Illinois at Chicago, welcomed the Fed's decision, reinforcing its commitment to the 2 percent inflation target and its independence from political pressures.

Olu Sonola, head of US economics at Fitch Ratings, explained that the inflation projections suggest a longer-term course of action for the Fed. Despite the robust economy, he warned that consumers may not fully absorb the impact of higher rates. Andrew Davis, head of investment strategy at Bryn Mawr Trust, noted that persistent inflation and rising energy costs have prompted the Fed to act more decisively in tightening monetary policy.

Goldman Sachs Asset Management's chief investment officer, Kay Haigh, indicated that the Fed is not planning an aggressive series of rate hikes. Most Federal Open Market Committee members foresee only two hikes this year, potentially avoiding the October meeting due to its proximity to the midterm elections. Haigh suggested a December hike as the base case, contingent on forthcoming CPI reports and energy price trends.

Oren Klachkin, a financial market economist for Nationwide, expected another quarter-point increase before the end of the year.