Fed’s Jerome Powell: “The Economy Seems to be Healthy” despite negative sentiment

Rural towns across the U.S. have seen sluggish economies over the last year, with plenty of ups and downs.

Fed Chair Jerome Powell acknowledged a decline in sentiment but assures everyone the economy is on the right track.

“The economy seems to be healthy. We understand that sentiment is quite negative at this time, and that probably has to do with turmoil at the beginning of an Administration that’s making big changes in areas of policy. That’s probably part of it. I do think the underlying unhappiness people have about the economy, though, is more of the price level.”

This week, Powell announced interest rates would be holding steady for now. Inflation reports earlier this month showed promising news. Both measures of inflation came in below analyst expectations, and despite those signs, inputs are expected to remain elevated this year.

Related Stories
Lewie Pugh, with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, discusses EPA DEF system changes and what they mean for the supply chain and fuel costs.
JBS says the plant is now operating at full capacity as plant workers return to work.
Hiring may ease slightly, but labor shortages remain persistent.
Price volatility is driving shifts in demand and supply innovation.
Industry leaders argue the decision could disrupt confidence in conservation practices and increase regulatory uncertainty for producers across the region.
Brandy Carroll with the Arkansas Farm Bureau shares an update on planting conditions and what producers are facing this season.