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Holiday Ginger Cookies Recipe

  Ingredients: - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour - 2 tsp ground ginger - 1 tsp baking soda - 1 tsp ground cinnamon - 1/2 tsp ground cloves - 1/4 tsp salt - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 large egg - 1 tbsp water - 1/4 cup molasses - 1/4 cup additional granulated sugar for rolling Instructions: 1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. 2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. 3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, water, and molasses, and beat until well combined. 4. Mix Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. 5. Form Dough Balls: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in the additional granulated sugar to coat. 6. Bake: Place the...

Persistent Inflation Halts Interest Rate Cuts


The U.S. Federal Reserve has resolved to maintain interest rates at a two-decade peak of approximately 5.3%, citing the need for “greater confidence” that inflation is decelerating sustainably towards its 2% target. Despite recent data suggesting inflation was on the decline, several reports have indicated that price increases and economic growth are still more robust than anticipated, challenging the Fed’s expectations.

Key Points:

  • Inflation’s Stubbornness: Recent months have not shown significant progress towards the 2% inflation goal.
  • Rate Cut Projections Shift: Previously expected rate cuts in 2024 may be delayed, with financial markets anticipating only one reduction later this year.
  • Economic Optimism: Chair Jerome Powell expects inflation to decrease over the year, despite the current economic challenges.
  • Policy Adjustments: The Fed plans to slow down the unwinding of its COVID-era bond purchases, aiming to reduce its holdings at a gentler pace.

This stance comes amidst concerns that persistent inflation could jeopardize President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign, as many Americans express dissatisfaction with the economy’s performance, particularly the pace of price increases. The Fed’s cautious approach reflects its commitment to ensuring inflation targets are met before introducing any rate cuts, which would eventually lead to lower borrowing costs for consumers and businesses.

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