Fed's Collins: rate cuts may need to be delayed or reduced this year

Boston Fed President Collins said it may take longer for the Fed to feel confident enough to ease monetary policy than previously expected, and the number of rate cuts this year may be reduced. Recent data have eased her concerns that rates will have to be adjusted in the near term, but she still expects cuts to begin later in the year. "Overall, the recent data have not materially changed my view, but they do highlight that there is uncertainty about the timing of interest rate cuts and the need to be patient about this, with the process of falling inflation likely to remain bumpy. This means that it may be necessary to be less accommodative in policy this year than previously anticipated."