Fed's Collins: It will be appropriate to start easing policy "soon"

Boston Fed President Susan Collins said it would be appropriate to begin cutting interest rates soon to help maintain a still-healthy labor market. Collins said officials should do so gradually as they begin to relax policies. She stressed she didn't see any "major red flags" in the economy. The Boston Fed president also said her focus is on "continuing to lower inflation while maintaining a healthy labor market." "Against this backdrop, I do think it will be appropriate soon to start easing policy," Collins said. Collins said recent data showed the economy remains generally in good shape, with inflation having fallen significantly and data strengthening that price growth is improving. Confidence in moving towards the Fed’s 2% target.