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Fed Poised for First 2025 Rate Cut as Weak Jobs Data Outweigh Inflation Concerns

  The Federal Reserve seal at its Washington, D.C. headquarters, where policymakers are set to decide on the first interest rate cut of 2025. The U.S. Federal Reserve is expected to lower its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points today, marking its first rate cut of 2025 and the first since December last year. The move would bring the federal funds target range down to 4.00%–4.25%, as policymakers respond to slowing job growth and rising unemployment, even as inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target. Recent labor market data showed just 22,000 jobs added in August, with earlier months revised downward, while the unemployment rate has climbed to around 4.3%. Inflation, measured by the Fed’s preferred PCE index, has edged higher in recent months, partly due to tariffs pushing up consumer prices. Markets have largely priced in the cut, with investors watching the Fed’s updated “dot plot” for clues on whether more reductions will follow in October and December. The decision ...
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Trump’s Tariff Blitz: Pharmaceuticals and Chips in the Crosshairs

The Trump administration has launched investigations into imports of pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, citing national security concerns. These probes, initiated under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, aim to impose tariffs to reduce reliance on foreign production. Pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, which are largely sourced from countries like India, China, and Taiwan, are seen as critical to U.S. security. While the administration argues that tariffs will boost domestic manufacturing, critics warn of potential shortages and increased costs for consumers. 

The move follows exemptions for smartphones and computers from steep reciprocal tariffs, signaling a strategic shift in trade policy. As markets react to these developments, the global economic landscape faces uncertainty. 



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