2026-03-18 18:17:34
Federal Reserve FOMC Statement Three Changes: Unemployment Rate Wording Adjusted, New Addition on Middle East Situation Impact, Waller Shifts to Support Unchanged Interest Rates
Gate News reports that on March 18th, the Federal Reserve FOMC released a statement on March 19th with three changes compared to the January statement:
First, the unemployment rate wording was adjusted, changing from "the unemployment rate has shown some signs of stabilization" to "the unemployment rate has changed little in recent months";
Second, new wording related to the Middle East situation was added, noting that "the impact of Middle East developments on the U.S. economy remains uncertain";
Third, Federal Reserve Governor Waller shifted his position, having supported a 25 basis point rate cut at the previous meeting, but now supporting keeping rates unchanged.