The key phrases in today’s FOMC statement from the Fed in reference to the outlook for interest rates: “exceptionally low” and “extended period.” Almost no one expected a change from the current zero-to-0.25% Fed funds target, although there was speculation that the wording might change. Not so. Bernanke and his crew want it understood that they’re going to keep rates low for quite a while, and they really do mean it.
Daily Archives: March 16, 2010
ANOTHER FOMC DAY
Will they hike ’em today? Probably not. But the sight of a central bank raising interest rates is no longer unusual. Australia has been hiking the price of money recently and South Korea is reportedly set to begin its exit strategy. The Fed isn’t likely to join them today. The formal yeah or nay arrives this afternoon, when the FOMC releases a statement. But the aura of tightening hangs in the air.
DODD’S REGULATIONS
Sen. Dodd’s new financial regulation package is out and about. What does it mean? What does it do? What will it change? Will it work? The analysis has only just begun. We can start by recognizing that the Dodd legislation aims to add “layers of oversight.” It’s already delivered layers of paper (the actual bill is 1,336 pages).