Fed's Williams (voter) says Middle East War is already lifting inflation, amid challenges, monetary policy is well positioned

OUTLOOK

  • Economic outlook highly uncertain amid war impact.
  • Seeing emerging signs of supply chain disruptions.
  • Sees 2026 growth of 2-2.5% (vs Fed median of 2.4%).
  • Fed rate control system is working very well.

LABOUR MARKET:

  • Expects unemployment to stay between 4.25-4.50% (vs Fed 2026 median projection of 4.4%).
  • Labour market is sending mixed signals.

INFLATION:

  • Expects inflation will return to target in 2027, after hitting 2.75-3.00% this year on energy prices (Fed median sees PCE at 2.7% in 2026; and Fed median sees inflation back at target in 2028).
  • Some of the energy shock is now passing through into other prices.
  • Swift end to conflict should help ease inflation pressures.
  • Expects tariff impact on inflation to wane this year.
Context

Fed's Williams highlights the current geopolitical tensions as a key factor in rising inflation, indicating potential supply chain disruptions. While the Fed's monetary policy seems well-positioned, the outlook remains uncertain, particularly with inflation expected to peak this year before gradually returning to target by 2027. This speaks to potential ongoing pressures in the inflation landscape, influencing market expectations for future rate decisions and economic growth trajectories.

Trade the TapeGet this analysis live, the moment it breaksNewsquawk's real-time dashboard delivers market-moving headlines and instant context to your desk before the rest of the market reacts.
Open Dashboard
#UNITED STATES#USD#JAPAN#UNITED KINGDOM#GEOPOLITICAL#IMPORTANT#FOREX#FIXED INCOME#EQUITIES#ENERGY#METALS#EU SESSION#US SESSION#FEDERAL RESERVE#CENTRAL BANK#INFLATION#MONETARY POLICY#WTI#COMMODITIES#GOLD#METALS & MINING#MATERIALS (GROUP)#BRENT CRUDE#DXY#TARIFF
Published: Updated: