The Federal Reserve issued a statement on Tuesday saying that it will hold off on further efforts to stimulate the economy and keep the federal funds rate at or near zero, but signaled that it was ready to step in with further action if necessary.
The Open Market Committee said in a release,“The Committee will continue to monitor the economic outlook and financial developments and is prepared to provide additional accommodation if needed to support the economic recovery and to return inflation, over time, to levels consistent with its mandate.”
The Fed apparently debated resuming securities purchases aimed at driving long-term interest rates even lower. Those who were opposed said it is likely this approach won’t work.
Source: Bloomberg, Craig Torres (09/21/2010)