The US Federal Reserve (FED) recently updated its economic projections against a backdrop of growing uncertainty. It is now openly concerned about a scenario of stagflation, a combination of weak growth, persistent inflation and rising unemployment. This concern stems in particular from the as yet unquantified impact of the new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, as well as rising geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East.
Gloomy forecasts, but monetary policy still flexible
At its last meeting, the FED kept its key rate in the 4.25% - 4.5% range, while publishing gloomy forecasts for the US economy. By the end of 2025, it anticipates PCE inflation at around 3%, unemployment at 4.5% and moderate growth. Despite this worrying picture, the central bank is still planning two rate cuts this year, demonstrating its determination to support economic activity.
Nevertheless, this monetary stance is the subject of debate within the committee: ten members support the cuts, while seven believe that rates should remain unchanged. Jerome Powell, Chairman of the FED, advocates caution, insisting on the need to observe the evolution of economic data before acting, particularly in view of the delayed effects of tariffs.
The FED is faced with a dilemma: it must curb inflation without destroying growth. Its diagnosis of stagflation is harsh, but perhaps too pessimistic if inflation figures remain under control. A rate cut in September is still conceivable, but will largely depend on the evolution of geopolitical tensions and international trade in the weeks ahead.
Below, you can see the table with the latest update of the FED's macroeconomic projections
US dollar (DXY), a potential bullish technical divergence to be monitored
The FED's confirmed intransigence is having an impact on the foreign exchange market. While the US dollar has been the weakest Forex currency since the beginning of the year, it has been stabilizing for several weeks now. If the FED maintains its current wait-and-see stance on a resumption of Fed funds rate cuts, the US dollar could be close to a low point on the Forex market.
At present, there are no resistance breaches to suggest this, but a potential bullish technical divergence has appeared on the weekly timeframe. In the past, this signal was a precursor to a future rebound in the US dollar against a basket of major Forex currencies.
DISCLAIMER:
This content is intended for individuals who are familiar with financial markets and instruments and is for information purposes only. The presented idea (including market commentary, market data and observations) is not a work product of any research department of Swissquote or its affiliates. This material is intended to highlight market action and does not constitute investment, legal or tax advice. If you are a retail investor or lack experience in trading complex financial products, it is advisable to seek professional advice from licensed advisor before making any financial decisions.
This content is not intended to manipulate the market or encourage any specific financial behavior.
Swissquote makes no representation or warranty as to the quality, completeness, accuracy, comprehensiveness or non-infringement of such content. The views expressed are those of the consultant and are provided for educational purposes only. Any information provided relating to a product or market should not be construed as recommending an investment strategy or transaction. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.
Swissquote and its employees and representatives shall in no event be held liable for any damages or losses arising directly or indirectly from decisions made on the basis of this content.
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Products and services of Swissquote are only intended for those permitted to receive them under local law.
All investments carry a degree of risk. The risk of loss in trading or holding financial instruments can be substantial. The value of financial instruments, including but not limited to stocks, bonds, cryptocurrencies, and other assets, can fluctuate both upwards and downwards. There is a significant risk of financial loss when buying, selling, holding, staking, or investing in these instruments. SQBE makes no recommendations regarding any specific investment, transaction, or the use of any particular investment strategy.
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. The vast majority of retail client accounts suffer capital losses when trading in CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Digital Assets are unregulated in most countries and consumer protection rules may not apply. As highly volatile speculative investments, Digital Assets are not suitable for investors without a high-risk tolerance. Make sure you understand each Digital Asset before you trade.
Cryptocurrencies are not considered legal tender in some jurisdictions and are subject to regulatory uncertainties.
The use of Internet-based systems can involve high risks, including, but not limited to, fraud, cyber-attacks, network and communication failures, as well as identity theft and phishing attacks related to crypto-assets.
Gloomy forecasts, but monetary policy still flexible
At its last meeting, the FED kept its key rate in the 4.25% - 4.5% range, while publishing gloomy forecasts for the US economy. By the end of 2025, it anticipates PCE inflation at around 3%, unemployment at 4.5% and moderate growth. Despite this worrying picture, the central bank is still planning two rate cuts this year, demonstrating its determination to support economic activity.
Nevertheless, this monetary stance is the subject of debate within the committee: ten members support the cuts, while seven believe that rates should remain unchanged. Jerome Powell, Chairman of the FED, advocates caution, insisting on the need to observe the evolution of economic data before acting, particularly in view of the delayed effects of tariffs.
The FED is faced with a dilemma: it must curb inflation without destroying growth. Its diagnosis of stagflation is harsh, but perhaps too pessimistic if inflation figures remain under control. A rate cut in September is still conceivable, but will largely depend on the evolution of geopolitical tensions and international trade in the weeks ahead.
Below, you can see the table with the latest update of the FED's macroeconomic projections
US dollar (DXY), a potential bullish technical divergence to be monitored
The FED's confirmed intransigence is having an impact on the foreign exchange market. While the US dollar has been the weakest Forex currency since the beginning of the year, it has been stabilizing for several weeks now. If the FED maintains its current wait-and-see stance on a resumption of Fed funds rate cuts, the US dollar could be close to a low point on the Forex market.
At present, there are no resistance breaches to suggest this, but a potential bullish technical divergence has appeared on the weekly timeframe. In the past, this signal was a precursor to a future rebound in the US dollar against a basket of major Forex currencies.
DISCLAIMER:
This content is intended for individuals who are familiar with financial markets and instruments and is for information purposes only. The presented idea (including market commentary, market data and observations) is not a work product of any research department of Swissquote or its affiliates. This material is intended to highlight market action and does not constitute investment, legal or tax advice. If you are a retail investor or lack experience in trading complex financial products, it is advisable to seek professional advice from licensed advisor before making any financial decisions.
This content is not intended to manipulate the market or encourage any specific financial behavior.
Swissquote makes no representation or warranty as to the quality, completeness, accuracy, comprehensiveness or non-infringement of such content. The views expressed are those of the consultant and are provided for educational purposes only. Any information provided relating to a product or market should not be construed as recommending an investment strategy or transaction. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.
Swissquote and its employees and representatives shall in no event be held liable for any damages or losses arising directly or indirectly from decisions made on the basis of this content.
The use of any third-party brands or trademarks is for information only and does not imply endorsement by Swissquote, or that the trademark owner has authorised Swissquote to promote its products or services.
Swissquote is the marketing brand for the activities of Swissquote Bank Ltd (Switzerland) regulated by FINMA, Swissquote Capital Markets Limited regulated by CySEC (Cyprus), Swissquote Bank Europe SA (Luxembourg) regulated by the CSSF, Swissquote Ltd (UK) regulated by the FCA, Swissquote Financial Services (Malta) Ltd regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority, Swissquote MEA Ltd. (UAE) regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority, Swissquote Pte Ltd (Singapore) regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, Swissquote Asia Limited (Hong Kong) licensed by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and Swissquote South Africa (Pty) Ltd supervised by the FSCA.
Products and services of Swissquote are only intended for those permitted to receive them under local law.
All investments carry a degree of risk. The risk of loss in trading or holding financial instruments can be substantial. The value of financial instruments, including but not limited to stocks, bonds, cryptocurrencies, and other assets, can fluctuate both upwards and downwards. There is a significant risk of financial loss when buying, selling, holding, staking, or investing in these instruments. SQBE makes no recommendations regarding any specific investment, transaction, or the use of any particular investment strategy.
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. The vast majority of retail client accounts suffer capital losses when trading in CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Digital Assets are unregulated in most countries and consumer protection rules may not apply. As highly volatile speculative investments, Digital Assets are not suitable for investors without a high-risk tolerance. Make sure you understand each Digital Asset before you trade.
Cryptocurrencies are not considered legal tender in some jurisdictions and are subject to regulatory uncertainties.
The use of Internet-based systems can involve high risks, including, but not limited to, fraud, cyber-attacks, network and communication failures, as well as identity theft and phishing attacks related to crypto-assets.
This content is written by Vincent Ganne for Swissquote.
This content is intended for individuals who are familiar with financial markets and instruments and is for information purposes only and does not constitute investment, legal or tax advice.
This content is intended for individuals who are familiar with financial markets and instruments and is for information purposes only and does not constitute investment, legal or tax advice.
Related publications
Disclaimer
The information and publications are not meant to be, and do not constitute, financial, investment, trading, or other types of advice or recommendations supplied or endorsed by TradingView. Read more in the Terms of Use.
This content is written by Vincent Ganne for Swissquote.
This content is intended for individuals who are familiar with financial markets and instruments and is for information purposes only and does not constitute investment, legal or tax advice.
This content is intended for individuals who are familiar with financial markets and instruments and is for information purposes only and does not constitute investment, legal or tax advice.
Related publications
Disclaimer
The information and publications are not meant to be, and do not constitute, financial, investment, trading, or other types of advice or recommendations supplied or endorsed by TradingView. Read more in the Terms of Use.