Fed Monetary Policy: No Rate Increase in June

According to its post-meeting statement issued Wednesday, the Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve voted not to increase its target federal funds rate. The target federal funds rate will remain at 0.250 to 0.50 percent.

Based on review of current and anticipated financial and economic events, the Committee cited slowing job growth and momentum of inflation-based compensation as reasons supporting its decision. While the national unemployment rate recently fell to 4.70 percent, FOMC members saw room for growth in employment. Unemployment rates are calculated based on active workforce members and do not include those who are under-employed or who have left the workforce. Global influences on the Fed’s monetary policy include uncertainties about China’s economy and the possibility that the United Kingdom may exit the European Union.

Housing markets and household spending improved, but the Fed cited lagging business investment and dismal jobs growth as concerns that led to a unanimous decision not to raise the federal funds rate.

Analysts characterized FOMC members as being “dovish” as compared to previous meetings. Only one member expected a single rate increase this year at the April meeting, but six members expected only one rate increase at June’s meeting.

In a post-statement press conference, Fed Chair Janet Yellen said that while a rate increase is possible at FOMC’s July meeting, she noted that there is no post-meeting press conference scheduled, which would make it more difficult for the Fed to explain its decision. Analysts also said that a rate increase is unlikely in September in advance of national elections in November.

Inflation remains below the Fed’s goal of two percent and is expected to do so for the short to medium term.

Fed Chair Cites Changing Economic Conditions, Forecasts Incremental Rate Hikes

Fed Chair Janet Yellen said during her post-meeting press conference that current economic conditions indicate that gradual rate hikes are needed to ensure ongoing economic growth. Rate hikes, when and if they occur, would increase very slowly and are expected to remain “accommodative.”

Clair Yellen said that each FOMC meeting is “live,” which means that meeting agendas and actions can flex according to current developments that influence monetary policy. The FOMC has repeatedly said that its decision-making is primarily based on members’ constant evaluation of developments affecting domestic and global economies.

37980 N Neatwood Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$474,990
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,131 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6699248
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful NEW Home in PRIME San Tan Valley location, close proximity to Queen Creek and other major cities. JULY 2024 MOVE-IN! Prime lot bordering common area, overlooking scenic desert views. Featuring countless upgrades such as 9' ceilings, Shaw Ceramic Tile Floors, Granite countertops in the kitchen. Whirlpool Stainless steel appliances and white cabinetry. Washer and Dryer included. Energy-efficient features throughout, Wi-Fi & programmable thermostat, and electric range. Spacious walk-in closet in owner's suite! Front yard landscaping with irrigation included and generous covered patio in the backyard. Minutes from hiking trails and scenic mountain views! Fantastic proposed amenities include community lake, parcourse stations, bike loops and racks, ramadas, shaded play structures, great park area including large community pavilion, BBQ grills, picnic tables, pickleball court and open space areas. Located near Queen Creek, highly rated schools and easy access to shopping centers, dining options and entertainment venues.

9730 W Albeniz Place Tolleson, AZ 85353

$474,990
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,688 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6701785
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful Brand New Home in a Highly Desirable West valley location. Under Construction - Est completion of August. Features countless upgrades such as 9' ceilings, Shaw 17x17 Tile, Granite countertops in the kitchen. Whirlpool Stainless steel appliances. White shaker cabinets with Stainless Steel Pulls. Energy-efficient features throughout, WIFI & programmable thermostat. Spacious walk-in closet in the primary suite. Front yard landscaping, covered patio in the backyard. Spectacular Mountain Views! The community features a greenbelt, a premium neighborhood park with playground. Conveniently located near the new 202 freeway, schools, shopping and dining, and Estrella Mountain Regional Park.

11816 S 173rd Lane Goodyear, AZ 85338

$474,990
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,841 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6703353
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Situated on a homesite facing sweeping views of the Estrella Mountains. This beautiful home boasts 3 large bedrooms and a private enclosed study. The open-concept kitchen includes ample countertop space, built in appliances, designer backsplash, a center island, and an expansive walk-in pantry. Host your next dinner party in the open dining and great room then transition to the covered back patio for dessert and a nightcap. Additional highlights include wood like tile, 8' interior doors, soft water loop with drain, 8' garage door, and so much more! Located within the Estrella masterplan with 2 state-of-the-art Residents Clubs including fitness centers and pools, Starsplash Water Park, and a community lake with activities including boat rentals.

40870 W Agave Road Maricopa, AZ 85138

$474,990
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,987 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6399861
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
THIS HOME IS READY FOR MOVE-IN! It's the popular Belice - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and 3 car tandem garage. We're building this home with an 8' garage door, garage service door, 12x8 sliding glass door off of the great room that leads out to your extended covered patio. Gas appliance package with microwave. Lausanne Espresso cabinets with 42'' upper cabinets in kitchen. Himalaya white granite countertops in kitchen and the enhanced kitchen island with matching backsplash. Upgrade flooring includes 12x24 Linden Pointe Grigio tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms/closets. Owners bath has separate tub and shower with Artic white tile surrounds. Dual sinks at bath 2. Interior two tone Gray paint throughout and so much more. Water Company is Santa Cruz Water Company and Sewer.