Powell: Fed Is 'of Mind' to Raise Rates at March Meeting

The transcript discusses the upcoming decision on interest rate increases, focusing on the criteria for future rate changes and the decision-making process. It highlights the committee's inclination to raise the federal funds rate at the March meeting, contingent on appropriate conditions. The discussion also touches on global economic risks and the expected temporary softening of the economy, with an optimistic outlook on the economy's underlying strength.

What is the main topic of discussion in the initial part of the transcript?

• The decision to lower interest rates

• The anticipation of an interest rate increase

• The impact of inflation on the economy

• The role of the federal reserve in global markets

When is the decision regarding the federal funds rate expected to be made?

• At the April meeting

• At the January meeting

• At the February meeting

• At the March meeting

What is the committee's stance on raising the federal funds rate?

• They are against raising it

• They are undecided

• They have already raised it

• They are inclined to raise it

What external factor is expected to cause temporary economic softening?

• A global pandemic

• A natural disaster

• A crime wave

• A political election

What is the speaker's outlook on the economy's recovery?

• The economy's recovery is uncertain

• The economy will take years to recover

• The economy will recover quickly

• The economy will not recover