Now, as a new week unfolds, the debate is shifting to how strong the economy performed at year-end and whether 2024 will also bring good tidings. Recent inflation data has shown prices are trending back toward the central bank’s target of 2% annual inflation. The Fed will have its first meeting of 2024 late this month after holding interest rates steady at its December meeting. A stronger economy or a hotter-than-expected reading on inflation might push the first cut into the second half of the year. Another important piece of the economic puzzle will be the leading economic index from The Conference Board, due out Monday.

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Persons: ” Christopher Rupkey, “, Wells Fargo Organizations: Federal Reserve, Fed, Conference Board Locations: COVID