Fed officials flag rising inflation risks amid uncertainty over Trump policies, tariffs

Published On Feb 21, 2025, 8:19 AM

Federal Reserve officials have raised concerns about inflation risks due to the uncertainty surrounding President Trump's policies, particularly regarding tariffs. They note that businesses anticipate passing increased tariffs on to consumers, leading to higher prices. Despite a healthy labor market, Fed officials expressed caution, with some predicting the possibility of more interest rate cuts if inflation cools. However, persistent inflation could complicate their plans, forcing the Fed to either maintain higher rates or confront difficult trade-offs.

Stock Forecasts

XLY

Negative

The expectation of higher tariffs and inflation could negatively affect consumer sentiment and spending, which might hurt sectors sensitive to consumer discretionary spending.

QQQ

Negative

Increased inflation expectations can put pressure on the Fed to maintain or raise interest rates, which could impact growth stocks negatively, particularly in technology.

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