The Federal Open Market Committee yesterday lowered its target for the federal funds rate 50 basis points to 1.0%.
“The pace of economic activity appears to have slowed markedly, owing importantly to a decline in consumer expenditures,” the FOMC said in a statement accompanying its policy action. “Business equipment spending and industrial production have weakened in recent months, and slowing economic activity in many foreign economies is damping the prospects for U.S. exports. Moreover, the intensification of financial market turmoil is likely to exert additional restraint on spending, partly by further reducing the ability of households and businesses to obtain credit.
“In light of the declines in the prices of energy and other commodities and the weaker prospects for economic activity, the committee expects inflation to moderate in coming quarters to levels consistent with price stability.
“Recent policy actions, including today’s rate reduction, coordinated interest rate cuts by central banks, extraordinary liquidity measures, and official steps to strengthen financial systems, should help over time to improve credit conditions and promote a return to moderate economic growth.
“Nevertheless, downside risks to growth remain. The committee will monitor economic and financial developments carefully and will act as needed to promote sustainable economic growth and price stability.”
The FOMC also approved a 50-basis point decrease in the discount rate to 1 1/4% .
