Fed Cuts Interest Rates by Half-Point, More Reductions Likely Ahead
Interest Rates Today Sep 24
In a significant move, the Federal Reserve has cut interest rates by 0.5%, marking its first major reduction since 2020. This decision, announced at the September 2024 Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting, reflects concerns over a weakening labor market and cooling inflation trends. While inflation has eased, the Fed hinted at more rate cuts in the coming months, potentially reaching a total of 75 basis points by year-end.
Economic Context: Reasons for the Cut
The Fed's rate cut comes in response to mixed economic signals. The U.S. labor market, once the driving force of post-pandemic recovery, has shown signs of slowing down. Recent reports have indicated a decline in job growth, with unemployment expected to rise slightly toward the end o...