Analyst Colby Smith says Fed officials appear to agree there is no need for consecutive rate hikes ahead of the September CPI. If the Fed hikes as expected in September, officials may postpone a further increase at the politically sensitive October meeting, which falls days before the midterm elections. After the CPI release, Fed Chair Kevin Warsh will face pressure to explain sticking to a gradual hiking path amid rising price pressures.

2026-10-14

Analyst Colby Smith says Fed officials appear to agree there is no need for consecutive rate hikes ahead of the September CPI. If the Fed hikes as expected in September, officials may postpone a further increase at the politically sensitive October meeting, which falls days before the midterm elections. After the CPI release, Fed Chair Kevin Warsh will face pressure to explain sticking to a gradual hiking path amid rising price pressures.