FED interest rate hike probability

Based on the latest market pricing, the probability of an interest rate hike by the Federal Reserve in November has increased to 52%

The rise in expectations followed a surprise survey of the services sector by the Institute for Supply Management in August, which showed an acceleration in economic activity, including prices paid. The overall index rose to 54.5 from 52.5, and the prices sub-index increased from 56.8 to 58.9, reflecting rising price pressures in the economy. Market participants are currently grappling with uncertainty about how much the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates and how long interest rates will remain high. Federal Reserve officials have made it clear they will keep interest rates on hold for now, but will closely monitor economic data to determine their next steps. While some economic indicators have begun to moderate, the strong performance of the US services sector serves as a forward-looking indicator of continued economic strength.

An interesting perspective to consider is that earlier in the year, there was considerable talk of an impending recession, causing companies to take a cautious approach and potentially causing consumers to cut back on spending as well. However, the predicted recession never materialized and companies now find themselves with empty inventories but still experiencing high demand. As a result, they are putting aside their previous concerns and are actively investing in replenishing their inventories. It is important to realize that most of the stagnation is caused by psychological factors and this psychological barrier may have been removed, at least from a business perspective.

However, the impact of higher interest rates on consumers, especially in terms of the affordability of items such as new cars and mortgages, can be a gradual process. The market is currently pricing in an 89 basis point cut in interest rates by December 2024, but that forecast still depends on how the economic data unfolds. The possibility of higher interest rates for a longer period is certainly a possibility. Currently, the key point of these developments is the strengthening of the dollar in the currency market; Because expectations of a possible increase in interest rates in November continue to affect currency valuation and financial markets.

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