The Federal Reserve signaled at its recent meeting that it is done raising its policy rate and is poised to reduce it by 75 basis points next year to support the expanding economy.
As flush households face the potential of an economic slowdown, they are reluctant to take on debt. Instead, households appear to prefer precautionary saving in contrast with overconsumption.
The central bank hiked its policy rate by 25 basis points to a range between 4.5% and 4.75%, its eighth straight increase, though lower than the recent hikes.
inflation is most likely approaching an inflection point where the central bank can begin considering a pause in its efforts to restore price stability.
The Federal Reserve increased its policy rate by 75 basis points on Wednesday to a range between 3.75% and 4% as it hinted at slowing the pace of its hikes.
At this critical juncture, with the policy rate residing in neutral terrain, it is natural for the Fed to adjust its rhetoric as it considers next steps.