Fed hawk on the news wires
Fed's Mester is speaking and has comments which are consistent with her previous comments:
- views a small step up in interest rates appropriate
- another rate iincrease is a prudent step to take
- economy to grow at or slightly above 2% next couple years
- underlying economic fundamentals remain sound
- consumer spending that's driving growth is expected to continue
- Fed is not behind the curve
- postponing hikes too long would raise risk of recession and financial instability
- prospects are likely higher for changes in fiscal policy, immigration, infrastructure and trade policies