U.S. may expand Nvidia and AMD’s 15% China chips deal to other companies
Investing.com -- Boston Federal Reserve President Susan Collins stated on Tuesday that she favors a patient approach to changing interest rates amid economic uncertainty, even as data indicates import tariffs will increase inflation.
"Calibrating appropriate policy in this context is challenging," Collins said in a speech at a National Association for Business Economics event in Washington. "Continued overall solid economic conditions enable the Fed to take the time to carefully assess the wide range of incoming data."
Collins emphasized that an "actively patient" approach to monetary policy remains appropriate at this time.
While acknowledging that Trump administration tariffs will impact the economy, with some price effects already visible, Collins suggested the full consequences might not be as severe as initially feared because households and businesses are well-positioned to handle higher prices.
She projected that higher import prices will push core inflation to approximately 3% by year-end while simultaneously dampening economic growth and employment. However, she noted that financial data suggests firms may be able to decrease profit margins and consumers might continue spending despite price increases.
"As a result, the adverse impact of tariffs on labor market conditions and economic growth may be more limited," Collins explained.
The Fed’s benchmark interest rate currently stands in the 4.25%-4.50% range. Most Fed officials and financial markets do not anticipate a rate cut at the upcoming July 29-30 policy meeting.
Fed officials remain in observation mode as they gather data on how President Trump’s trade policies will affect the economy, with uncertainty about the magnitude and persistence of tariff impacts.
However, Fed Governor Christopher Waller and Fed Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman have indicated openness to cutting rates this month, believing tariffs will create a one-time inflation increase that the central bank can disregard.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.