Odaily News Fed spokesman Nick Timiraos recently commented on Fed Chairman Powells speech. Powell hinted that he was pleased with the decline in inflation this summer and that the Fed was unlikely to raise interest rates again unless there was clear evidence that increased economic activity would jeopardize inflation progress. . Powells comments closely mirror recent comments from other Fed officials, who have signaled a readiness to keep rates on hold at the next meeting. Thats partly because a rise in long-term yields over the past month could slow economic growth, effectively displacing a rate hike if yields rise. When describing whether monetary policy will tighten again, Powell twice used the word may instead of the more hawkish word will: Evidence of a strengthening economy may put the progress of further inflationary pullback at risk or become a Reasons for further tightening of policy.” (Golden Ten)