Waller Expects Further U.S. Rate Hikes but Says Timing Is Flexible

Federal Reserve Governor Christopher J. Waller said on October 8 that he expects further U.S. interest-rate hikes if economic data continue to arrive as expected. Speaking at the Istanbul Economic Forum, he said their timing remains flexible and increases need not occur at consecutive meetings. Waller described the labor market as stable but inflation as too high, making inflation the focus of near-term policy. He cited high energy prices associated with the Middle East conflict, AI investment and continuing trade disputes as inflation pressures. His remarks reflected his own views, rather than a new Federal Open Market Committee decision.