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Fed Cuts Rates by 25 Basis Points, Signals Two More This Year

Policymakers cited softening hiring as the key risk, with questions about the central bank’s independence growing.

Overview

  • The decision lowers the federal funds target to 4.00%–4.25%, the first reduction since December 2024.
  • New projections pencil in two additional quarter-point cuts in 2025, with little change to unemployment or inflation forecasts.
  • The vote was 11–1, with newly confirmed Governor Stephen Miran favoring a 50-basis-point move.
  • Officials pointed to slowing job gains and rising downside risks to employment even as CPI hovered around 2.9% in August.
  • The move followed pressure from President Trump and rapid board changes, and some strategists warned perceived political influence could raise market risks.