U.S. Rate Cut Predictions for 2025 Amid Ongoing Inflation Concerns

Kathryn Rooney Vera, Chief Market Strategist at StoneX, shared her perspective on the Federal Reserve's potential moves in the face of inflationary pressures during an appearance on CNBC's Squawk Box.

She believes that while the U.S. economy continues to show growth, the Fed might opt for two rate cuts later in the year, but only after the second quarter.

With the markets focused on the release of the upcoming employment report, Vera highlighted the ongoing inflation issues and fiscal hurdles. While remaining cautiously optimistic, she pointed out that the U.S. economy’s growth, which exceeded expectations last year at 1.8%, could fuel inflation further if fiscal policies do not change.

Vera stressed that sustained economic growth above potential levels, without a tightening of fiscal policies, could push inflation higher. She warned that if spending isn’t curbed, inflation could remain problematic, urging investors to stay vigilant.

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Looking ahead, Vera expressed doubts about immediate actions from the Fed. Although she doesn’t foresee any major changes in the near term, she noted that if inflation continues to rise past 3.5%, the Fed might have to revisit its position. Despite this, she believes the central bank is unlikely to shift its stance unless inflation significantly increases.

In her advice to clients, Vera recommended preparing for different outcomes, noting that stronger-than-expected growth could delay the anticipated rate cuts. She emphasized the importance of protecting against the risk that the Fed might not reduce rates at all.

On the global stage, Vera observed that private investment worldwide is approaching record highs, which could signal potential for economic expansion. However, she reiterated concerns about the ongoing challenge of high inflation, which may persist in the coming months, despite the overall growth outlook.

Kosta Gushterov

Kosta has been working in the crypto industry for over 4 years. He strives to present different perspectives on a given topic and enjoys the sector for its transparency and dynamism. In his work, he focuses on balanced coverage of events and developments in the crypto space, providing information to his readers from a neutral perspective.