For immediate release The Federal Open Market Committee decided today to keep its target for the federal funds rate in 5-1/4 percent.
Economic growth has slowed over the course of this year, partly reflecting a substantial cooling of the housing market. Though recent indiors have been mixed, the market appears to be likely to expand at a moderate pace on equilibrium over coming quarters.
Readings on core inflation have been elevated, and the high degree of resource use has the potential to sustain inflation pressures. However, inflation pressures appear likely to moderate over time, representing reduced impetus from energy prices, included inflation expectations, as well as the cumulative effects of monetary policy actions and other things controlling aggregate demand.
Nonetheless, the Committee judges that some inflation risks remain. The extent and timing of any additional firming which may be necessary to tackle these risks will depend on the evolution of the outlook for the inflation and economic growth, according to incoming info.
Voting for the FOMC monetary policy action were: Ben S. Bernanke, Chairman; Timothy F. Geithner, Vice Chairman; Susan S. Bies; Donald L. Kohn; Randall S. Kroszner; Frederic S. Mishkin; Sandra Pianalto; William Poole; Kevin M. Warsh; and Janet L. Yellen. Voting against was Jeffrey M. Lacker, who favored that an increase of 25 basis points at the federal funds rate target at this meeting.
It appears foolish that the USD is weakening. I think it's just traders seeking to get in on the trend too late. I think the dollar will strengthen in the medium term. EUR/USD might have to touch strong resistance first (such as it did on Friday).