The Fed last paused interest rates in September 2023, holding the funds rate at 5.25% to 5.50% after a rapid tightening cycle aimed at curbing post-pandemic inflation.After the December rate cut, Powell said that the lowering of rates brought monetary policy “within a broad range of neutral.”The two goals often conflict, operate on different timelines and are influenced by unpredictable global events.The Fed’s dual congressional mandate requires it to balance inflation and job growth via interest rates.The ...