Fed’s Powell Signals Firmer Economic Footing Amid Job Market Weakness: Policy Outlook
** Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell indicated the U.S. economy may be on a firmer path than expected while highlighting persistent job market weakness. With inflation remaining above target and policy divisions emerging, the Fed maintains a cautious, data-dependent stance on interest rates. **CONTENT:**
In a significant address to the National Association for Business Economics conference in Philadelphia, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell presented a nuanced assessment of the U.S. economic landscape, suggesting potential strength in overall activity while expressing concerns about labor market conditions. The remarks come at a critical juncture for monetary policy as policymakers balance competing priorities of inflation control and employment support.