Saturday, July 5, 2025

Federal Reserve Problems 7-5-25

AI Overview

The Federal Reserve's primary responsibilities include conducting monetary policy, supervising and regulating banks, maintaining financial stability, and providing financial services to the government and banks. These functions are aimed at promoting maximum employment and stable prices in the U.S. economy. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=what+are+the+primary+responsibilities+of+the+federal+reserv 

Not all members of the Federal Reserve Board (.gov) are bankers. The Board of Governors, the central component of the Federal Reserve System, has seven members, including the Chair and two Vice Chairs. While some members may have backgrounds in banking, their expertise can also come from other areas like academia, economics, or public policy. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

Board of Governors: The Board of Governors is the central component of the Federal Reserve System and is responsible for setting the nation's monetary policy. 

Composition of the Board: The Board consists of seven members, including the Chair and two Vice Chairs, nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate. 

Backgrounds of Board Members:  While some governors may have experience in banking or finance, their backgrounds can also be in other fields like economics, academia, and public policy. For example, Michael Barr is the Vice Chair for Supervision, and Philip Jefferson is Vice Chair. 

Federal Reserve Banks: The 12 regional Federal Reserve Banks also have boards of directors, and some of the directors are bankers. However, these directors represent the public and the banking industry, and they are not necessarily the same as the Board of Governors. 

Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC): The FOMC sets the nation's monetary policy and includes the seven members of the Board of Governors, the President of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and four other Reserve Bank presidents. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=are+all+of+the+federal+reserve+board+members+bankers

Based on the provided information, there are no Federal Reserve Board members who are explicitly stated as being trained in Austrian free market economics. The current members of the Board are listed, along with their positions, but their specific academic backgrounds and adherence to particular schools of economic thought are not detailed in the snippets. 

However, it's worth noting:

·       One snippet indicates that former Vice Chair for Supervision Quarles gave a speech discussing the work of Friedrich Hayek, a prominent figure in the Austrian school, and the importance of the price system.

·       The broader influence of Austrian economics, particularly the work of individuals like Mises and Hayek, has impacted economic thought more generally, with even a former Federal Reserve Chairman, Alan Greenspan, acknowledging their profound effect on mainstream economists' thinking. 

In summary, while specific training in Austrian free market economics is not mentioned for current Federal Reserve Board members, the ideas of the Austrian School have had an impact on the field of economics and even on some individuals associated with the Federal Reserve System. 

are any of the federal reserve board members trained in austrian free market economics

While some sources suggest that Austrian economics has had a lasting impact on mainstream economic thought in the US, there is no evidence to suggest that any current Federal Reserve Board members are formally trained in Austrian Free Market economics. 

The Federal Reserve Board employs a large number of economists with diverse backgrounds and interests, but the dominant economic schools of thought within the institution are generally aligned with mainstream approaches to monetary policy and financial regulation. 

Important Notes:

·       Influences: While not formally trained as Austrian economists, some Fed officials have acknowledged the importance and influence of Austrian thinkers like Friedrich Hayek on certain aspects of economic analysis, particularly in areas like the price system.

·       Alternative Perspectives: Austrian economics is often associated with a critique of central banking and modern monetary policies. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=are+any+of+the+federal+reserve+board+members+trained+in+austrian+free+market+economics

Based on the provided search results, there is no direct evidence to suggest that any current or past members of the Federal Reserve Board are explicitly trained in Fabian Socialist-managed economy. 

The provided results indicate that the Federal Reserve Board members are primarily economists with various specializations, such as macroeconomics, monetary policy, and financial regulation. Fabian socialism, as described, advocates for gradual social change and a more equitable distribution of wealth through democratic means, and has historically influenced the UK's Labour Party. 

While the Federal Reserve has a broad mandate that includes promoting maximum employment and stable prices, according to its website, it doesn't align with the specific tenets of Fabian socialism's managed economy, which involve extensive state control of key industries and directed economic development. 

Are any of the federal reserve board members trained in Fabian Socialist managed economy ?

Based on the provided search results, there is no direct evidence to suggest that any current Federal Reserve Board members are explicitly trained in Fabian socialist managed economy principles

. The available information primarily focuses on their educational backgrounds and professional experiences, which generally involve mainstream economics and financial policy. 

Fabian socialism advocates for a gradual implementation of socialist principles through democratic means, emphasizing policies like a more equitable wealth distribution, social justice, and public ownership of key industries. 

While some individuals associated with the Fabian Society have been influential in economic thought and policymaking, particularly in the UK, there's no indication of a direct link or training in this specific economic philosophy among the current Federal Reserve Board members.

The Federal Reserve Board members' backgrounds tend to be rooted in areas like macroeconomics, asset pricing, banking, and financial regulation, as evidenced by their listed publications and work experience. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=are+any+of+the+federal+reserve+board+members+trained+in+fabian+socialist+managed+economy

US universities predominantly teach mainstream economics, which encompasses both neoclassical economics and its variations, as well as key areas like macroeconomics, microeconomics, and econometrics. While many institutions offer a broad curriculum, the specific focus and approach can vary significantly between universities, with some emphasizing theoretical frameworks and others focusing on empirical analysis or specific schools of thought like the Chicago School

Is the Chicago School of economics conservative?

Milton Friedman shaped and spread these ideas through the Chicago school of economics, a conservative movement that entered the public sphere in the 1950s as a new class of scholars at The University of Chicago charted a vision of unfettered capitalism where private markets would supersede the state.

Yes, there are current or former members of the Federal Reserve System who have connections to the University of Chicago and the "Chicago school of economics" thought, although it's important to differentiate between the Federal Reserve Board of Governors in Washington D.C. and the regional Federal Reserve Banks. 

·       Austan D. Goolsbee, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago: Before his appointment in 2023, Dr. Goolsbee served as the Robert P. Gwinn Professor of Economics at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business for many years. 

The Chicago school of economics is a school of economic thought known for its emphasis on neoclassical price theory and the belief that free markets are generally more efficient than government regulation. While the Chicago Fed president has strong ties to the University of Chicago, not all individuals within the university's economics department necessarily adhere to the Chicago school of thought. 

It is worth noting that while some individuals within the broader Federal Reserve System have ties to the University of Chicago and its economics department, the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, located in Washington, D.C., is a separate entity that oversees the operations of the entire Federal Reserve System. 

Regarding the current Federal Reserve Board of Governors:

·       Based on the provided search results, Jerome Powell, the current Chair of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, earned his law degree from Georgetown University and did not have a background as an economist. 

Yes, there is a connection between the Federal Reserve System and the University of Chicago, particularly through the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. 

Austan D. Goolsbee, the current president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, held a position as the Robert P. Gwinn Professor of Economics at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business before taking office at the Chicago Fed.  

The Chicago School of Economics is a prominent school of thought originating at the University of Chicago, emphasizing neoclassical price theory and minimal government intervention in the economy. However, it's important to remember that:

·       The Chicago School is a school of thought, not an institution that provides training or certifications.

·       Not all economists associated with the University of Chicago necessarily subscribe to the Chicago School's specific principles. 

In summary: While some individuals within the broader Federal Reserve System have strong ties to the University of Chicago and its economics department, the question of whether a Federal Reserve Board member is "trained" at the Chicago School of Economics is more about their intellectual and professional background influenced by the University of Chicago's academic environment, rather than a specific credential from the "Chicago School." 

Yes, several members of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors have prior experience as CEOs or in other high-level executive positions in the private sector. For example, Jerome Powell, the current Fed Chair, was previously a partner at The Carlyle Group, a private investment firm. Additionally, the Federal Reserve Banks themselves, while part of the Federal Reserve System, are structured like private corporations and have boards of directors with members who often have private sector experience. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Board of Governors: While the Board of Governors is an independent government agency, its members, including the Chair, are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate. As mentioned, Jerome Powell has private sector experience. The other members also come from diverse backgrounds, including academia, finance, and public service, and some have held leadership positions in the private sector. 

Federal Reserve Banks: The twelve regional Federal Reserve Banks are structured like private corporations, with boards of directors that include representatives from the private sector. These directors are chosen to reflect the diverse economic interests of their respective districts, including agriculture, commerce, industry, services, labor, and consumers. 

Class A, B and C Directors: Each Reserve Bank has a board of nine directors, with three from each of the aforementioned categories. Class A directors are generally representatives of member banks, while Class B and C directors represent the broader public interest. Critically, Class B and C directors are explicitly prohibited from being officers, directors, or employees of banks or bank holding companies. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=do+any++federal+reserve+board+members+have+private+sector+ceo+experience

DOGE v FED

Elon Musk, through his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has indicated an interest in examining the Federal Reserve's spending, particularly its $2.5 billion renovation project. Musk has publicly stated that DOGE should investigate this and other potential areas of government waste within the Federal Reserve. While DOGE's activities have focused on government agencies and spending, Musk has framed the Federal Reserve as being subject to scrutiny as part of his broader effort to improve government efficiency. Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Musk's motivation: Musk has been critical of the Federal Reserve's renovation project, calling the $2.5 billion price tag an "eyebrow raiser" and suggesting it warrants investigation. He believes that DOGE, as part of its broader mandate to reduce government waste, should examine this and other potential areas of excessive spending within the Federal Reserve. 

DOGE's role: DOGE, or the Department of Government Efficiency, is an initiative led by Musk with the stated goal of identifying and eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse within the US government. 

Potential for audit: While Musk hasn't explicitly stated that DOGE will conduct a full financial audit of the Federal Reserve, he has suggested that the central bank should not be exempt from DOGE's scrutiny. Some reports suggest that DOGE may seek to examine the Federal Reserve's spending, particularly its renovation project. 

Federal Reserve's response: The Federal Reserve has not publicly commented on Musk's proposal to examine its spending, according to some reports. According to reports from Bloomberg, their staff did meet with representatives from the Treasury's DOGE team in January, suggesting some level of engagement with the initiative. 

Context: Musk's push to scrutinize the Federal Reserve is part of a broader effort to reduce government spending and increase transparency, according to some reports. He has also been vocal about the need for government agencies to be accountable to the public, including the Federal Reserve. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=has+DOGE+studied+the+federal+reserve

The Federal Reserve System employs approximately 24,000 people. This includes staff at the Board of Governors in Washington, D.C. and the 12 regional Federal Reserve Banks. Specifically, there are roughly 3,000 employees at the Board and about 21,000 at the regional banks. The number of employees has varied over time, with a recent trend of staff reductions after a period of growth. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=how+many+employees+work+at+the+federal+reserve

AI plans at the FED

AI Overview

Yes, the Federal Reserve is actively exploring and implementing AI technologies. They have established an AI program and a generative AI incubator to explore various use cases, including data processing, regulatory compliance, and even potentially influencing economic modeling.  Here's a more detailed look:

Internal AI Program: The Federal Reserve Board has a dedicated AI program that promotes responsible use of AI, enables AI-related innovation, and manages associated risks. 

Generative AI Incubator: The Fed has created a "generative AI incubator" to test and develop applications of AI in areas like payment rails, supervision, and regulation. 

Specific Use Cases:

·       Data Processing: AI is being used to clean and process vast amounts of unstructured data, making it easier for analysts to work with. 

·       Regulatory Compliance: AI is being explored to improve efficiency in processing public comments on rulemakings and potentially identify Personally Identifiable Information (PII). 

·       Economic Modeling: AI is being used to analyze economic data and potentially improve the accuracy of economic forecasts. 

·       Supervision and Regulation: The Fed is exploring how AI can enhance its supervisory and regulatory functions. 

Responsible Innovation:

The Fed is committed to responsible AI development, ensuring that AI use is ethical, transparent, and beneficial. 

Impact on Workforce: While AI is being adopted to improve efficiency and potentially automate some tasks, the Federal Reserve also recognizes the potential for AI to significantly change the US workforce. 

From 1960 to 1990, home mortgage interest rates in the United States experienced significant fluctuations. In the early 1960s, rates were relatively stable, hovering around 6%. However, they began to rise steadily throughout the 1970s, peaking in the early 1980s at over 16%. By the late 1980s and into the 1990s, rates gradually declined, ending the period around 8-10%. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1960s: Rates were generally stable, around 6%. 

1970s: Rates began to climb, starting in the mid-7% range and reaching over 11% by the end of the decade. 

1980s: Rates continued to rise, reaching an all-time high of 16.64% in 1981. 

1990s: Rates began to decline, with the average 30-year fixed rate ending the decade around 8%. 

Freddie Mac's data shows the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate starting at 7.5% in 1971, rising to 18.63% in October 1981, and then falling to 6.91% in 1998. 

Between 1980 and 1990, a total of 5,369,692 bankruptcies were filed in the United States. 

Comments

I want to see the Fed populated with economists like Milton Friedman from the Chicago school and CEOs like Trump. Friedman said: “You can have Welfare Programs or you can have Open Borders, but you can’t have both.”

Friedman believed in the “Law of Supply and Demand”.

The Mortgage Meltdown in 2008 was caused by Banks being threatened with “Racial Discrimination” lawsuits if they didn’t make loans to “unqualified buyers”. The Mortgage Lender’s Crisis in the 1970s was caused by home interest rate jumps from 6% to 11%. In the 1980s home mortgage rates topped out at 16.64%. The Fed 30 year interest rate mirrored the home mortgage rates. The Fed was trying to slow the US economy to end the high interest crisis.

The Federal Reserve is currently holding US interest rates higher than US Inflation. The most recent data indicates the US inflation rate for May 2025 is 2.4%. The current interest rate for the 10-year US Treasury note is 4.35%. The current average interest rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage in the U.S. is around 6.67%.

Inflation is caused by money printing. The Fed target for inflation is 2%, but should be 1% or 0%. The US dollar has lost over 96% of its value since 1913, when the Federal Reserve took over the dollar.

Nothing exceeds like excess. In 1965 a good family income was $10,000. In 2000 a good family income was $100,000. If we don’t change anything, by 2050 a good family income will be $1 million.

The Fed should let the market determine the interest rates and concentrate on maintaining the money supply to prevent too much money printing. The inflation target should be 1% moving to 0%.

Norb Leahy, Dunwoody GA Tea Party Leader

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