Jun 23, 2010
Reading between the lines at the Fed
The Associated Press has helpfully compiled a comparison of the Federal Reserve’s statements on the economy and its policy positions from its last regular meeting on April 27-28 and the meeting that wrapped up Wednesday.
April: “While bank lending continues to contract, financial market conditions remain supportive of economic growth.”
June: “Financial conditions have become less supportive of economic growth on balance, largely reflecting developments abroad.”
LABOR MARKETS
April: “The labor market is beginning to improve.”
June: “The labor market is improving gradually.”
ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
April: “Growth in household spending has picked up recently but remains constrained by high unemployment, modest income growth, lower housing wealth and tight credit.”
June: “Household spending is increasing but remains constrained by high unemployment, modest income growth, lower housing wealth and tighter credit.”
INTEREST RATES
April: Leaves federal funds rate unchanged at a record low of zero to 0.25 percent, where it has been since December 2008, and repeats pledge to keep rates “exceptionally low” for “an extended period.”
June: Leaves federal funds rate unchanged and once again repeats pledge to keep rates “exceptionally low” for “an extended period.”


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