U.S. Treasury Secretary Dismisses Recession Fears Despite Weak Job Reports
On Saturday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen reassured the public about the economy’s resilience despite recent disappointing job reports that have unsettled investors and affected the stock market.
Speaking at the Texas Tribune Festival in Austin, Yellen acknowledged that job growth had slowed following a surge during the post-pandemic economic reopening. However, she maintained that the U.S. economy remains strong and is on course for a “soft landing.” She highlighted that there have been no significant layoffs, despite a decrease in hiring activity.
Yellen’s remarks followed a Bureau of Labor Statistics report showing nonfarm payrolls increased by 142,000 in August, falling short of the anticipated 161,000. This data, along with a decline in job growth and the S&P 500’s recent performance, has fueled concerns about a potential recession.
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Despite these concerns, Yellen pointed out that the unemployment rate has dropped to 4.2% and that job gains in August were higher than in July. She expressed confidence in the Federal Reserve’s ability to handle the economy effectively, with expected interest rate cuts contributing to a stable economic environment.
Yellen emphasized that the progress in reducing inflation without sparking a recession is significant, describing the situation as a “soft landing.”