Hoffman: Fed to Have Evidence for Third-Quarter Hike

The transcript discusses the potential for a Federal Reserve rate hike in June, considering mixed economic indicators and employment reports. While some positive signs exist, such as job growth and wage increases, the data may not be strong enough for a June decision. The discussion also covers future predictions for rate hikes in July or September, considering factors like inflation and GDP growth. Employment trends suggest a slowdown in job gains, with forecasts averaging around 175,000 jobs per month for the year.

What is the main reason the Federal Reserve might delay a rate hike until July or September?

• A strong employment report

• Mixed economic indicators

• High inflation rates

• A presidential election year

Which aspect of the employment report was highlighted as a positive sign?

• Improvement in job quality

• Increase in involuntary part-time jobs

• Rise in the labor force

• Decrease in average hourly earnings

What is the expected average job growth per month for the rest of the year?

• 200,000 jobs

• 175,000 jobs

• 100,000 jobs

• 150,000 jobs

Why might the Federal Reserve consider a rate hike in the third quarter?

• High unemployment rates

• Lack of inflation data

• Full employment and wage growth

• Decrease in GDP

What factor is contributing to the drop in the U6 unemployment rate?

• Decrease in involuntary part-time jobs

• Increase in involuntary part-time jobs

• Decrease in average hourly earnings

• Rise in the labor force