The Dollar consolidated as markets braced for a key speech from Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell at the Fed’s annual symposium in Jackson Hole.
This speech is highly anticipated as it is expected to clarify the Fed’s strategy regarding future interest rate cuts.
Market participants are particularly keen on any indications from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell about the extent of the anticipated interest rate reductions starting in September, especially since the markets are now pricing in an increased probability for the Fed to lower rates by 25 basis points at the next meeting.
Powell’s address is especially pivotal amid recent economic uncertainties, such as escalating recession fears and sharp downward revisions in US job data. If Powell takes a more dovish stance during the symposium, it could lead to a weaker dollar and a further decline in US Treasury yields.
However, the most likely scenario will be that Jerome Powell maintains a balanced communication approach and uses this speech to prepare markets for a potential rate cut in September.
