The Federal Reserve (Fed) is monitoring inflation and using core PCE inflation as a key indicator. Despite a recent decline in inflation, core PCE inflation remains slightly above the Fed's target of 2%. The Fed's goal is to keep inflation around this level to maintain price stability. While inflation has shown no signs of returning to target, the Fed is cautiously optimistic that its current policy can address risks and support economic growth by adjusting interest rates as needed.
Despite a push to control rising inflation, the European Central Bank has kept interest rates unchanged, following a data-driven approach to managing inflation. While a rate cut is likely in the future, the central bank believes it's too soon to commit due to ongoing economic uncertainty. The decision differs from the Federal Reserve's recent rate increases, emphasizing the ECB's focus on gradually bringing inflation to 2%.
One Federal Reserve official warns that interest rates may need to rise instead of being cut to control inflation. Despite progress in lowering inflation, risks remain high due to supply chain issues, geopolitical factors, government spending, and a tight labor market. The official emphasizes caution in easing policy too soon as it could lead to a resurgence of inflation.
Central banks, including the German Bundesbank and the European Central Bank (ECB), incurred significant losses in 2023 due to higher interest rates affecting their securities holdings. The Bundesbank reported no distributable profit, while the ECB lost 1.3 billion euros. Despite these financial challenges, central banks maintain their ability to implement monetary policies and ensure price stability.
