Fed's Powell: We still think the labor market is the best economic data we have

Fed's Powell: You don't see a weakening in the labor market. Fed's Powell: Demand and supply for workers are coming down at about the same rate. Fed's Powell: The main number you have to look at is the unemployment rate. Fed's Powell: Decline in labor supply and demand suggests downside risk. Fed's Powell on the dissents: What you want is a clear explanation, and we had that today. People thought carefully about this and put their positions out there.

Fed's Powell: Inflation is most of the way back to 2% and there's catch-up inflation reflecting past pressures. Fed's Powell: Services inflation coming down nicely, goods going up. Fed's Powell: We can't separate out the tariff effects on inflation. Powell: Tariff costs will be shared between consumers and retailers. Fed's Powell: What we see now is the very beginnings of tariff inflation.

Fed's Powell: In the discussion around policy, the majority view was that inflation is above target, employment is at target, and policy should be somewhat restrictive. Fed's Powell: Expects dissents to be explained in next day or so. Powell Says Differences in Opinions Are Normal and Calls This One of the Best Meetings They've Had Fed's Powell: Inflation is further from our goal than employment. Powell: We'll receive two employment and inflation reports before the next meeting—those will guide our next steps.