Federal Reserve news

Fed Chair Powell (Q&A) says January jobs report was a positive surprise, February was a negative surprise; need to take them both together

Newsquawk Staff ·

  • Committee is concerned about very low job creation
  • Effectively there is zero net job growth in the private sector, but that seems what the economy needs
  • We have a zero employment growth equilibrium, is balanced, but has a feel of downside risks
  • Fed is concerned about it, and is watching carefully, could be a result of deliberate policy on immigration

What it means

Fed Chair Powell's comments indicate a nuanced view on the job market, acknowledging contrasting jobs reports for January and February. His emphasis on low job creation suggests underlying economic concerns, implying that the Fed may be cautious in its monetary policy approach moving forward. This scrutiny could influence market expectations for rate decisions and the overall economic outlook, particularly impacting the USD and fixed income markets.

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