#PowellRemarks ### **Powell Remarks**

Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized **data-dependent policy**, signaling potential rate cuts if inflation cools further but stressing patience until sustainable progress is clear. He noted **labor market resilience** but acknowledged risks from delaying policy adjustments too long.

Key takeaways:

- **No rush to cut rates** – The Fed needs "greater confidence" inflation is moving toward 2%.

- **Balanced risks** – Over-tightening could hurt growth, but premature easing may reignite inflation.

- **Market impact** – Stocks dipped as hopes for imminent cuts faded; Bitcoin held steady, reflecting its decoupling from Fed liquidity expectations.

Powell’s cautious tone suggests **high rates may persist longer**, keeping pressure on risk assets. Traders now price in **1-2 cuts in 2024**, down from earlier expectations.

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**Bottom Line:** "Higher for longer" remains the mantra until inflation data softens decisively. 📉💵....