Williams says monetary policy appropriately set as tariff risks cloud inflation outlook

New York Fed President John Williams said there is no immediate need to raise or cut rates, highlighting upside inflation risks from tariffs while projecting U.S. growth in 2026 at 2%–2.25% and contrasting with Dallas Fed's view on potential rate hikes.

Summary

New York Fed President John Williams stated on June 3 that monetary policy is currently "in the right place," signaling no immediate need for rate adjustments. He noted that tariff developments are increasing upside inflation risks, while projecting U.S. growth in 2026 at 2%–2.25%. Williams's comments, made to Yahoo Finance, contrast with Dallas Fed President Lorie Logan, who suggested rates may need to rise later this year if inflation remains above the Fed's 2% target. Market data from CME FedWatch showed a 40.9% chance that rates stay unchanged through end-2026, a 41.6% chance of cumulative 25 basis-point hikes, and a 1.7% chance of a 25 basis-point cut at the June meeting.

Terms & Concepts
  • monetary policy: Central bank decisions on interest rates and financial conditions aimed at influencing inflation and economic growth.
  • inflation: The pace at which the overall level of prices for goods and services rises over time.
  • basis-point hikes: Interest-rate increases measured in hundredths of a percentage point; 25 basis points equals 0.25 percentage point.