'This is the test': All eyes on US Fed to tackle high inflation

Live updates

1. 28d ago

   Federal Reserve Officials Signal Inflation Remains Too High

   Three Federal Reserve officials warned that inflation remains too high and additional interest rate hikes might be required to lower it. Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari discussed these economic challenges in an exclusive conversation with Steve Liesman on CNBC. Meanwhile, US mortgage rates climbed for the sixth consecutive week, lifting the thirty-year average to 7.30 percent and driving purchase applications down to their lowest levels since April 2025. Philadelphia Fed President Anna Paulson previously emphasized that returning inflation to the two percent target is a top priority for central bank policymakers.

   Why it matters

   The persistent pressure of high inflation continues to shape central bank policy and constrain consumer borrowing. Surging borrowing costs have severely impacted both purchase applications and refinancing activity across the housing sector. Policymakers face intense scrutiny as they weigh whether additional monetary tightening is necessary to achieve their long-term target.

   What is confirmed

   • Three Federal Reserve officials warned on Thursday that inflation is too high and more interest rate hikes may be needed to bring it down.
   • Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari spoke with CNBC's Steve Liesman in an exclusive conversation on Wednesday night.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The US Fed raised rates to tackle inflation, irking Trump according to external reporting.

   What to watch next

   • Upcoming jobs report data release
   • Further statements from Federal Reserve officials regarding interest rate decisions
   Sources used for this update (8)

   1. finance.yahoo.com — Chorus of Fed officials warn inflation is still too high ...
   2. www.cnbc.com — Fed's Kashkari says inflation is 'still too high' even after ...
   3. www.americanbanker.com — The Most Powerful Women in Banking: What Leadership Looks Like When Writing a New Playbook
   4. www.gulf-times.com — tag - Gulf Times
   5. www.zerohedge.com — Futures Rise, Yields and Oil Drop Ahead Of Key Jobs Report | ZeroHedge
   6. www.marketscreener.com — Yield to worst | MarketScreener
   7. www.walesonline.co.uk — Andy Burnham announces 8 major changes including one 'long overdue' - full list | Wales Online
   8. www.thedailystar.net — US Fed raises rates to tackle 'too high' inflation, irking ...
   confidence 100%
2. 30d ago

   US Mortgage Rates Climb to Near Three-Year Peak as Yields Rise

   United States mortgage rates rose for the sixth consecutive week, pushing the thirty-year average to 7.30 percent alongside an increase in the five-year adjustable-rate mortgage. This surge in borrowing costs caused purchase applications to drop to their lowest levels since April 2025, while refinancing activity declined due to higher yields. Meanwhile, Federal Reserve officials continue to weigh economic conditions as Philadelphia Fed President Anna Paulson stresses that lowering inflation to the two percent target remains a top priority.

   Why it matters

   Federal Reserve policymakers previously indicated that interest rates may need to increase again to combat inflation, aligning with upcoming economic reports expected to show continued strengthening in the domestic economy. Concurrently, New York Fed President John Williams stated that Buffalo has significant local resources to build upon for economic growth.

   What is confirmed

   • The 30-year average mortgage rate rose to 7.30 percent as yields climbed.
   • Purchase applications dipped to April 2025 lows while refinancing fell amid higher yields.
   • Federal Reserve policymakers state that interest rates will likely need to rise again to combat high inflation.
   • Philadelphia Fed President Anna Paulson emphasizes that bringing inflation down to the 2 percent target remains a top priority.
   • New York Fed President John Williams stated that Buffalo has a lot to build on to grow its economy.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Upcoming economic reports are expected to show continued strengthening in the United States economy, which could support an argument for an October rate increase.

   What to watch next

   • Upcoming economic reports measuring the strength of the United States economy
   • Further Federal Reserve decisions regarding potential interest rate increases
   Sources used for this update (5)

   1. www.americanthinker.com — An interview with Ruel Domi - American Thinker
   2. www.americanthinker.com — Trump Is Winning The Iran War, And It Will Change The World - American Thinker
   3. www.briefs.co — OpenAI rolls out always-on assistant Dots, revamps pricing and updates models
   4. www.briefs.co — US mortgage rates climb for sixth straight week, nearing three-year peak
   5. buffalonews.com — New York Fed president says Buffalo has a lot to build on
   confidence 95%
3. 32d ago

   Fed Officials Signal More Rate Hikes Needed to Fight Inflation

   Federal Reserve policymakers state that interest rates will likely need to rise again to combat unacceptably high inflation. Philadelphia Fed President Anna Paulson emphasizes that bringing inflation down to the 2% target remains a top priority while balancing potential risks to the labor market. This push for tighter monetary policy coincides with upcoming economic reports expected to show continued strengthening in the United States economy, which could further support an argument for an October rate increase.

   Why it matters

   The central bank faces mounting pressure to address persistent inflation extending beyond energy costs. Officials previously advocated for continued rate increases to stabilize markets and protect the value of the dollar while maintaining central bank independence. Upcoming economic releases are expected to reinforce the position that the economy remains robust enough to handle additional borrowing costs.

   What is confirmed

   • Two Federal Reserve policymakers stated that the central bank will likely need to raise interest rates again to curb unacceptably high inflation.
   • Philadelphia Fed President Anna Paulson told a conference at her regional bank that returning inflation to 2% is a top priority.
   • Key economic reports due this week are expected to show that the US economy is strengthening.

   What to watch next

   • Upcoming economic data releases expected this week
   • Federal Reserve decisions regarding an October rate hike
   Sources used for this update (5)

   1. finance.yahoo.com — Fed officials see rates likely rising to curb high inflation
   2. finance.yahoo.com — Key US Data This Week Seen Bolstering Case for October Rate Hike
   3. transcripts.cnn.com — China's President Xi Jinping Wraps Up U.S. Trip with White House Tea, National Archives Tour; Saudi Arabi....
   4. www.dailyadvertiser.com.au — Toby Mobbs to tackle 14,000km tour in 400,000km Mazda3 hatchback | The Daily Advertiser | Wagga Wagga, NS....
   5. kfgo.com — Fed officials see rates likely rising to curb high inflation
   confidence 100%
4. 33d ago

   US Fed faces pressure to tackle high inflation

   Federal Reserve officials are advocating for continued interest rate increases to meet inflation targets. The Fed's actions are being closely watched as the US economy struggles with high inflation. Recent rate hikes have been implemented to combat inflation, which persists beyond energy costs. The labor market remains balanced, but additional hikes may be necessary to stimulate economic changes. Market stability and the value of the dollar are key focuses for the central bank's independence from political pressure.

   Why it matters

   The Federal Reserve's decisions have significant implications for the US economy and global markets. High inflation has been a pressing concern, and the Fed's actions will influence the trajectory of economic growth and stability. The central bank's independence is crucial in maintaining market confidence. Recent comments from Fed officials suggest a commitment to addressing inflation through interest rate adjustments.

   What is confirmed

   • Jeff Schmid of the Kansas City Fed supports the recent 25bp hike, noting that inflation persists beyond energy costs and the labor market remains balanced.
   • St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem suggests additional hikes may be necessary, stating that current monetary policy might still be stimulating the economy.

   What to watch next

   • The Federal Reserve's next interest rate decision
   • US inflation data releases
   • Global economic responses to US monetary policy changes
   Sources used for this update (9)

   1. www.saltwire.com — Chronicle Herald | News, Headlines and Stories | PNI Atlantic News
   2. www.thehindubusinessline.com — Sensex today | Stock Market Live Updates: Sensex, Nifty trade lower despite positive global cues, softer crude prices
   3. www.frc.org — FRC and FRC Action to Hold Pray Vote Stand Summit This Week
   4. www.rev.com — 2026 United Nations General Assembly Day One | Rev
   5. www.bbc.com — BBC Learning English - 6 Minute English
   6. www.local10.com — Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds explains why he removed Donald Trump references from campai....
   7. www.bbc.co.uk — BBC Learning English - 6 Minute English / Working for free
   8. www.bbc.com — BBC Learning English - 6 Minute English / The decluttering trend
   9. www.globalbankingandfinance.com — Yen Steadies as Intervention Threat Looms and Central Banks Hike Rates
   confidence 100%
5. 39d ago

   Fed Officials Signal Further Rate Hikes to Combat Inflation

   Federal Reserve officials are advocating for continued interest rate increases to meet inflation targets. Jeff Schmid of the Kansas City Fed supports the recent 25bp hike, noting that inflation persists beyond energy costs and the labor market remains balanced. St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem suggests additional hikes may be necessary, stating that current monetary policy might still be stimulating the economy. These moves follow a September meeting where the central bank's independence from political pressure remained a key focus for market stability and the value of the dollar.

   Why it matters

   The Federal Reserve manages US monetary policy to maintain price stability and maximum employment. Persistent inflation forces the bank to raise borrowing costs, which can slow economic growth to cool prices. Market credibility depends on the Fed making decisions based on economic data rather than political influence.

   What is confirmed

   • Jeff Schmid of the Kansas City Fed supports the 25bp rate hike.
   • Alberto Musalem, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, stated additional interest rate increases may be needed to reach inflation goals.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The labor market is balanced.

   What to watch next

   • Future Federal Open Market Committee meeting minutes regarding further rate hikes
   • Data on whether inflation persists beyond energy costs
   • Adoption rates of FedNow instant payments by US banks
   Sources used for this update (5)

   1. www.briefs.co — Andrew Ng Calls AI Doomsday Warnings "Science Fiction"
   2. www.briefs.co — Kansas City Fed's Jeff Schmid Backs Rate Hike, Urges Banks to Join FedNow
   3. uk.finance.yahoo.com — Fed’s Musalem Says More Rate Hikes Likely Needed to Cool Prices
   4. economictimes.indiatimes.com — Volatile yen draws intervention watch, other currencies subdued
   5. uk.finance.yahoo.com — The Fed keeps its independence
   confidence 90%
6. 43d ago

   Fed Hawkishness Countered by Chinese Copper Buying; US Heat Dome Grips South

   London copper prices climbed as Chinese spot buying and Shanghai premiums offset the Federal Reserve's recent hawkish policy stance. Meanwhile, a high-pressure heat dome pushed mid-September temperatures to record levels across the south-central United States, triggering extreme heat advisories for more than 41 million people. Cities including Dallas, Memphis, and Nashville recorded high daily temperatures. In international developments, Japan established a cabinet position to address rising bear attacks by naming its environment minister as bear control czar following record casualties.

   Why it matters

   The Federal Reserve recently raised benchmark interest rates by a quarter-point under Chairman Kevin Warsh to combat persistent inflation despite White House opposition. Concurrently, separate environmental and economic pressures emerged globally, including extreme weather in the United States and wildlife management responses in Japan. Commodities markets continue to adjust to monetary tightening alongside distinct regional supply and demand factors.

   What is confirmed

   • London copper climbed due to Chinese spot buying and Shanghai premiums countering Fed hawkishness.
   • A heat dome pushed temperatures to record levels in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, and Tennessee on September 15.
   • More than 41 million people were under National Weather Service extreme heat advisories, watches, or warnings on September 15.
   • Dallas reached 101 degrees Fahrenheit, Memphis reached 99 degrees Fahrenheit, and Nashville reached 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
   • Japan named its environment minister as bear control czar after recording 50,776 sightings, 238 injuries, and 13 deaths.

   What to watch next

   • Further movements in copper prices and Chinese spot buying volume
   • Updates on National Weather Service advisories as the south-central US heat dome persists
   • Implementation of Japan's centralized bear control response under the new cabinet post
   Sources used for this update (3)

   1. www.briefs.co — Copper Rises as Chinese Buying Offsets Fed Hawkishness
   2. jen.jiji.com — Heat dome brings record heat to south-central US in mid-September
   3. www.briefs.co — Japan Creates Cabinet Post To Tackle Rising Bear Attacks
   confidence 90%
7. 44d ago

   Federal Reserve raises interest rates for the first time in three years

   The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate on Wednesday by a quarter-point, marking the first increase since 2023. Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh announced the unanimous decision, stating that inflation has remained too high for too long. This policy shift aims to calm persistent price increases but directly defies demands from the White House for rate cuts ahead of the midterm elections, potentially triggering a sharp reaction from the administration.

   Why it matters

   The central bank last raised rates in 2023 before holding them steady amid political pressure. Analysts and publications previously urged the Fed to take aggressive action against stubbornly high inflation data, pricing in high expectations for the move. This decision tests the central bank's operational independence from executive branch pressure as midterm elections approach.

   What is confirmed

   • The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate by a quarter-point on Wednesday for the first time since 2023.
   • Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh stated in a unanimous vote that inflation is too high and has been for too long.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The rate increase could spur a sharp response from the White House.

   What to watch next

   • Official reaction from the White House regarding the quarter-point rate increase
   • Subsequent Federal Reserve statements on future rate decisions
   Sources used for this update (2)

   1. www.bbc.com — US central bank raises interest rates for first time in three years
   2. finance.yahoo.com — Federal Reserve hikes key rate for 1st time in 3 years, defying Trump demands for a cut
   confidence 100%
8. 45d ago

   Markets price in 92% chance of Fed rate hike Wednesday

   Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh faces a likely quarter-point interest rate increase during Wednesday's rate-setting meeting. Markets currently price in a 92% probability of this hike following high inflation data. While this move puts Warsh at odds with the White House just weeks before midterm elections, a top White House official has recently softened their stance, stating the administration will respect the process. This shift follows intense pressure from analysts and publications like The Economist for the Fed to act against inflation.

   Why it matters

   The Federal Reserve is balancing the need to curb high inflation against political pressure from the executive branch. Previous expectations that the hiking cycle had ended were overturned by a hot Consumer Price Index report. The timing is sensitive due to the proximity of the upcoming midterm elections.

   What is confirmed

   • Markets price in a 92% probability of a quarter-point interest rate increase.
   • Fed Chair Kevin Warsh is expected to decide on a rate hike this Wednesday.

   Still unconfirmed

   • A top White House official stated the administration will respect the Fed's process.

   What to watch next

   • The official Federal Reserve rate decision on Wednesday
   • Further statements from the White House regarding Fed independence
   Sources used for this update (6)

   1. www.briefs.co — EU finance chief champions cross-border bank mergers to fix Europe's scale problem
   2. jen.jiji.com — Revolut hacking, postal police investigate for unauthorized access and computer fraud
   3. finance.yahoo.com — Fed rate hike expected Wednesday under Kevin Warsh
   4. jen.jiji.com — Consumption: Altroconsumo and Satispay in parliament against IBAN discrimination
   5. www.newtimes.com.ng — New Times Newspaper
   6. finance.yahoo.com — ‘We’re going to respect the process’: Top White House official softens on Fed rate hike
   confidence 90%
9. 46d ago

   Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh faces pressure to hike rates after hot CPI report

   Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh is under intense pressure to raise interest rates following a hot Consumer Price Index report. While Wall Street previously believed the hiking cycle had ended, current inflation data suggests a rate hike is likely during this week's key rate-setting meeting. Warsh faces conflicting pressures, including potential conflict with Donald Trump, as analysts and publications like The Economist argue that the Fed must act to tackle high inflation.

   Why it matters

   The Federal Reserve manages US monetary policy to maintain price stability. A decision to raise rates is a primary tool for cooling inflation but can create political tension and market volatility.

   What is confirmed

   • Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh is facing pressure to raise interest rates.
   • A hot CPI report has increased expectations for a Federal Reserve rate hike.
   • The US Federal Reserve has a key rate-setting meeting scheduled for this week.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Kevin Warsh is on a collision course with Donald Trump over the looming rate hike.
   • Wall Street believed the hiking cycle was over prior to recent data.

   What to watch next

   • The Federal Reserve's official interest rate decision this week
   • Any public response from Donald Trump regarding Fed policy
   Sources used for this update (7)

   1. CNBC — Analysis: Hot inflation data sets up a Fed rate hike. What happens if Warsh wavers
   2. Bloomberg.com — Fed Chairman Warsh Faces Pressure to ‘Put Up or Shut Up’ After Hot CPI Report
   3. Fortune — Wall Street thought the hiking cycle was over. Now Kevin Warsh has his ‘back against the wall’
   4. The Economist — Kevin Warsh should raise interest rates
   5. Yahoo Finance — 'This is the test': All eyes on US Fed to tackle high inflation
   6. Bloomberg.com — Fed’s Warsh on Collision Course With Trump as Rate Hike Looms
   7. www.europesays.com — All eyes on US Fed to tackle high inflation
   confidence 90%