Powell warns tariffs may fuel inflation, says rate cuts hinge on summer price trends

About Powell warns tariffs may fuel inflation, says rate cuts hinge on summer price trends

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warned that proposed tariffs could increase inflation, especially if import taxes rise as expected this summer. He emphasized that interest rate cuts depend on upcoming inflation trends, with the Fed unlikely to lower rates until inflation shows clearer signs of easing. While some officials favor rate cuts this year, others see no need for changes. Market expectations suggest rate reductions could happen in September and December, but future policy hinges on evolving economic data.