White House Financial & Settlement Solutions, LLC

  Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said last month’s decision to cut the fed funds target rate by a half percentage point was due to a “recalibrating” policy, as the Fed follows its dual mandate regarding inflation and growth. The new buzzword — recalibration — implies mechanical fine-tuning, but unfortunately, the macro economy is not that robotic. We are full of emotional people with ever-changing needs and wants. However, the buzzword also evokes something therapeutic; that is, the Fed is not cutting rates because of an imminent recession. In fact, the economy will likely grow above trend for yet another quarter or two. However, risks are rising for 2025. Blowout Payrolls, or Was It? We do not believe the Fed is cutting rates because a recession is just around the corner but rather because rates are still too restrictive. Yes, a slowdown looks likely next year, but for now, businesses are benefitting from a consumer on very good footing with higher income growth coupled with more