Fed’s Barkin Predicts Further PCE Decline, Advocates Cautious Approach

Richmond Fed President Thomas Barkin anticipates a continued decline in Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) inflation data later this week, citing significant progress made by the Federal Reserve. While optimistic, Barkin emphasized the need for a “wait-and-see” approach due to existing policy uncertainties.

Key Takeaways:

Barkin expects the upcoming PCE report to show further inflation decline, acknowledging substantial progress made by the Fed.
He believes policy should remain moderately restrictive until there’s greater confidence that inflation will reach the target.
He stressed that uncertainty warrants caution in the final stages of combating inflation.
The Fed will monitor the impact of future policy changes on the economy.
Barkin views the current state of the economy as positive.