SUBSCRIBERS

Economic advice for Trump and Powell: First, do no harm 

The US economy has become more dynamic over the last few years, and the main goal for the president-elect and the chair of the Federal Reserve should be to keep it that way

    • By concentrating on the issues facing small, young businesses – as opposed to large, well-established corporations with a lot of lobbyists – the incoming administration could foster innovation and support business formation.
    • By concentrating on the issues facing small, young businesses – as opposed to large, well-established corporations with a lot of lobbyists – the incoming administration could foster innovation and support business formation. PHOTO: PEXELS
    Published Wed, Nov 27, 2024 · 04:00 AM

    IF US economic growth is so good, then why does the Federal Reserve need to cut interest rates?

    That was essentially the question put to Fed chair Jerome Powell recently after a speech in Dallas. It would be more constructive to examine the premise – why is growth so good? – and ask what the Fed and others can do to keep it that way.

    Real gross domestic product is on track to exceed its pre-pandemic trend for the second straight year. Typically, the Fed might worry that strong growth is a sign that the economy is in danger of overheating, but not this time. Inflation fell. The extra growth largely reflects higher productivity and a faster-growing workforce. Supply-driven growth is not inflationary; to the contrary, it can be crucial for rebalancing supply and demand and lowering inflation.

    Share with us your feedback on BT's products and services