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Warsh calms Fed inflation concerns
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Fed Chair Kevin Warsh signaled rate hikes may be needed as inflation stays elevated. His Jackson Hole speech aimed to reassure markets but offered no clear policy path.
Background
Kevin Warsh became Fed chair in late May, replacing Jerome Powell. Inflation has remained above the Fed's 2% target, with core PCE at 3.3% annually. Long-term Treasury yields spiked to 19-year highs, prompting Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to buy back bonds. Warsh's speech at Jackson Hole was closely watched for signals on future rate policy.
How it unfolded
- Aug 24, 2026Warsh prepares for Jackson Hole speech; markets hope for clarity on inflation plan.
- Aug 27, 2026Reports indicate Warsh under pressure to clarify views; he has avoided forward guidance.
- Aug 28, 2026Warsh gives speech at Jackson Hole, signaling rate hikes may be needed; markets reassured that inflation fight is priority.
Who’s saying what
- Analysts
- Mark Zandi of Moody's expects Warsh to reaffirm 2% target and note better inflation numbers, but markets want clarity on forward guidance.
- Fed Officials
- Cleveland Fed's Hammack says time to act on inflation; Boston Fed's Collins open to rate hike if inflation doesn't decline.
- Market
- Investors remain cautious, with PCE rising 0.2% monthly above estimates, fueling rate hike expectations.
Still unverified
Warsh's exact inflation measure may change next year after task force recommendations; unclear if he favors core PCE.