Fed's Barkin (2027 voter) says firms say demand is fine and are not doing layoffs at scale; expects progress on inflation, which remains above target

Fed's Barkin (2027 voter) says firms say demand is fine and are not doing layoffs at scale; expects progress on inflation, which remains above target.

Barkin's comments suggest resilience in the labor market, highlighting that companies are maintaining demand and not executing large-scale layoffs. This may indicate that inflation pressures could ease, but with current levels still above target, it points to a cautious stance for future monetary policy, likely maintaining a hawkish edge in Fed communications.