PANews reported on November 18 that Federal Reserve Governor Waller stated he supports another interest rate cut at the December meeting due to growing concerns about a sharp slowdown in the labor market and employment. Waller stated, "I'm not worried about accelerating inflation or a significant rise in inflation expectations. My focus is on the labor market, and after several months of weakness, the September jobs report later this week or any other data in the coming weeks is unlikely to change my view that another rate cut is necessary." Waller specifically noted that he favors another 25 basis point rate cut. Waller stated, "I'm concerned that restrictive monetary policy is putting pressure on the economy, especially its impact on low- and middle-income consumers. A rate cut in December would provide additional protection against a faster weakening of the labor market and move policy in a more neutral direction." At the same time, he indicated that price data suggests tariffs will not have a long-term impact on inflation. Another rate cut would be a risk management approach.


