Powell Stresses Economic Tightrope Between Jobs Stress and Price Pressures

Fed Chair Jerome Powell warned that the U.S. faces competing risks of weak hiring and persistent inflation, forcing the Fed into balancing acts. He hinted that quantitative tightening may soon conclude, which could open space for cuts. The lack of fresh data—due to a government shutdown—complicates decisions. He said further rate moves will be meeting by meeting, and that upcoming October and December meetings are in focus. Markets are leaning toward two cuts this year.