Minutes of September meeting bring more uncertainty

On Wednesday the Fed released the minutes of its September meeting, once again refraining from raising interest rates. Several FOMC members expressed desire to raise rates, while others stated that a rate hike would be required 'relatively soon'. It was the first time in five years when more than two officials voted for an immediate rate hike. Some Fed policy makers still have concerns over the strength of the labor market and inflation, thus, more evidence of US economic growth is required. Inflation has been below the Fed's 2% target, namely at 1.7%, but it was still argued that the levels are quite close to expectations and there are few signs of inflationary pressures.  Some argue that the Fed was somewhat hawkish, but these minutes had little impact on the markets, as they brought more uncertainty, not necessarily suggesting a rate hike will occur in December, despite Fed Chair Jannet Yellen and several other officials stating that they would raise rates by year's end if inflation and employment figures keep improving. Although there are two more Fed meetings scheduled in 2016, a move in November has been basically ruled out due to US presidential elections. According to CME Group's data, a December rate hike is currently seen with a probability of slightly more than 60%.