Fed’s Cook says AI, Iran risks could keep inflation pressures high

Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook warned during her speech in Oakland, California, that future adjustments to the Fed funds rate will be influenced by inflation and labor market data. She anticipates continued inflation pressures stemming from AI advancements and the US-Iran conflict. The Fed's limited tools make it difficult to address potential job losses due to AI adoption.

While there is some optimism about the pace of AI integration minimizing net job losses, the gains are unlikely to offset broadening inflation this year. Signs of inflation pressure are evident in the recent data. There is limited evidence that AI is altering the labor market structure, and the Federal Reserve would face constrained options if such a scenario arises. Lowering interest rates could inadvertently fuel inflation.