Fed's Harker Leans Towards Modest 25bp Rate Cut to Start Easing Cycle

Federal Reserve officials are signaling a likely interest rate cut in September, with Philadelphia Fed President Patrick Harker suggesting a 25 basis point reduction as a sensible starting point. This comes after Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s remarks at Jackson Hole, indicating that “the time has come for policy to adjust.” While open to larger cuts if economic conditions warrant, Harker and other officials, including former Cleveland Fed President Loretta Mester, favor a measured approach. The market is increasingly pricing in the possibility of a more significant 50 basis point cut, though Fed officials seem inclined towards a more cautious initial move.