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In a move reflecting a shift in U.S. monetary policy expectations, Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller signaled that the central bank should stop signaling rate cuts. Waller stated that holding interest rates steady will likely be the right course for the foreseeable future to ensure price stability. Furthermore, he did not rule out the possibility of future rate hikes if inflation does not ease soon.
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Sign InThese comments come as global economic data shows mixed pressures, with Russia's annual inflation rate hitting 5.6% on May 15 per market data, while China saw a slowdown in retail sales which grew by only 0.2% on May 18. Traders are monitoring how Waller's hawkish tone will impact risk appetite, especially as labor markets remain resilient in major economies like the UK, which reported a 5% unemployment rate on May 19 per market data.
Investors should watch for the upcoming Fed meeting minutes and further policymaker speeches for confirmation of this hawkish tilt. According to the economic calendar, markets are awaiting consumer confidence and housing index data in the U.S. to gauge economic resilience against high rates. In the absence of specific instrument prices, focus remains on bond yields and the Dollar's reaction to Waller's stance.