<p>I've been around the financial markets for almost 20 years, and what I've learned is that the economy takes front and center stage for the fed. They may say this or that about the dollar or inflation/deflation, but that is only if they have the luxury to do so when the economy is humming along to their (or the public's) satisfaction.</p>
<p>In the late 90's when the economy was pushing the upper limits, they raised rates significantly. In 2002, they lowered rates significantly. They created whatever backdrop was needed in order to do this whether it was the Y2K scare, overspending, inflation/deflation, strong/soft dollar, etc. That's why I have this view that they will lower rates sooner rather than later. The economy will be hurting too much for them not to act if housing is as bad as we think it is. Eventually, companies in many different sectors will blame housing for their weakness in earnings, and layoffs will ensue. When this happens, good bye economy, hello rate cuts. </p>
<p>The average citizen will not care about strong/weak dollar or inflation/deflation when their job is at risk or their home has dropped 40% in value. And the Fed will be there to save the day and eventually ruin everything once again!</p>
<p>The biggest difference is of course now we have Bernanke instead of Greenspan. So maybe things will be different this time. We shall see...</p>