Fed's Hammack (2026 voter) says unemployment rate looks like it's stabilising, adds we have the labour market broadly in balance but noted inflation is still too high

• Consumer spending holding in driven by upper incomes.
• Important for Fed to get inflation back to 2%.
• Current Fed Funds Rate is right around neutral.
• Local contacts say growth is picking up. 
• Good for the Fed to stay on hold right now and doesn't need to fine-tune rate policy.

Fed's Hammack indicates that while the unemployment rate appears to be stabilizing and the labor market is in balance, inflation remains a critical concern, suggesting the Fed's commitment to achieving its 2% target. His comments imply a current stance of maintaining rates, reflecting confidence in ongoing growth while avoiding unnecessary adjustments. This dual focus on inflation and stability could influence market expectations for future Fed actions, particularly in the USD and fixed income sectors.