Fed Minutes Reveal Deep Divisions on Rate Cuts Amid Inflation, Unemployment Debate

• Most Fed officials expect more interest rate cuts if inflation declines as anticipated.
• Some officials argued rates should remain on hold "for some time" after the December meeting.
• The Dec. 9-10 FOMC meeting minutes showed significant divisions, with a 9-3 vote to cut rates by a quarter point.
• Policymakers were split on future rate projections, with six opposing the December cut and advocating higher rates.
• Debate persists over whether inflation or unemployment poses a greater risk to the US economy, complicated by a government shutdown.

Why It Matters: Fed officials remain deeply divided on the future path of interest rates, balancing inflation and unemployment risks.