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“It is difficult to argue that lower-than-normal rates are appropriate when unemployment is low and inflation is effectively at the Fed's target.”
Federal Reserve Chairman is trying to maintain flexibility to respond to changes in economic environment.
Powell lauds economy, as the benchmark rate rises to 2%.
Rates rise a quarter point, as expected, and Powell exhibits policy similarities to Janet Yellen—but significant differences in style.
Fed officials also voted to continue reducing the central bank's balance sheet.
But the FOMC omits a reference to the labor market strengthening further.
FOMC minutes highlight uneasiness about weak readings on inflation.
Policy makers still project three total rate hikes for 2017.