The US Federal Reserve is scheduled to release its policy meeting minutes at 18:00 GMT, Wednesday. The release could clarify the FOMC plans about the rate hike terms. What should we focus on in the release?
Rate hike timing
If minutes confirm the Fed is ready to raise rates in the next 3-6 months, investors’ demand for the US dollar will increase.
Rate hike pace
The Fed seems to be willing to hike gradually in order to avoid economic shocks.
Economic conditions needed
How strong should the labor market becometo make FOMC feel confident when hiking? How high should the inflation get? Which other indicators is the Fed watching?
Reasons for the Q1 slowdown
Is the economy cooling down in early 2015 because of the weather conditions? Will the weakness expand into Q2?
Attitude to the strong USD
Expensive currency is hurting the US exporters. Which currency rate would be comfortable for the economy?