The Federal Open Market Committee voted to lower target interest rates by 25 basis points to a range of 4.0% to 4.25%.

Statement: The FOMC said:

  • Indicators suggest that economic activity moderated in the first half of the year.

  • Job gains have slowed, and the unemployment rate has edged up but remains low.

  • Inflation has moved up and remains somewhat elevated.

Dissenting Vote: Fed Governor Stephen Miran voted against the action, saying he preferred to lower the target range for the federal funds rate by 50 basis points.

Economic Projections: In its latest economic projections, the Federal Reserve estimated a higher gross domestic product than in the June report, but steady unemployment and inflation.