Economist Swonk Sees Fed Rate Liftoff as a 'Tough Call'

The transcript discusses the current economic indicators, focusing on inflation and the effects of the pandemic on various sectors like airfares and hotel rates. It highlights the housing market trends and shelter costs, emphasizing the role of the Federal Reserve in managing economic policy. The discussion includes the impact of asset purchases on market stability and the challenges in predicting future economic conditions, particularly regarding rate hikes and economic tension.

What factors contributed to the different economic response during the pandemic compared to previous crises?

What challenges does the speaker foresee for the Federal Reserve in deciding when to raise interest rates?