Story perspectives

Fed's Waller: Inflation, Stagnant Labor Market Complicate Rate Policy

4/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

On April 17, 2026, Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller said persistent inflation and a stagnant labor market complicate policy and may require holding rates until conditions improve.
He described a shift in his view of the labor market, saying hiring may be near a breakeven point.
He warned that economic shocks could trigger job losses.
He warned that price shocks could sustain inflation, contrasting with optimistic forecasts from other policymakers.

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Story summary

On April 17, 2026, Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller said persistent inflation and a stagnant labor market complicate policy and may require holding rates until conditions improve.
He described a shift in his view of the labor market, saying hiring may be near a breakeven point.
He warned that economic shocks could trigger job losses.
He warned that price shocks could sustain inflation, contrasting with optimistic forecasts from other policymakers.