elevated

Consumer staples and healthcare are traditionally viewed as defensive plays during periods of elevated market volatility.

Consumer staples and healthcare are traditionally viewed as defensive plays during periods of elevated market volatility.

Traders’ bets have reflected elevated uncertainty about the Dec. 9 decision for weeks, since Powell told reporters after the October meeting that a further rate cut was “far from” a done deal.

This elevated risk remains for years after quitting.

Morgan Stanley, noting elevated downside risks to employment, forecast three rate cuts in 2026, though it no longer expects the Fed to ease in December.