Kalshi - Fed Rate Cut Predictions and $SPX Implied Vol
Been watching the Kalshi markets for the Fed rate cut by June. The 'Will the Fed cut rates by June 2024?' contract has been hovering around the 70-75% probability mark. It feels like the market is pricing in a cut, but the recent $SPX strength (even with $ASML up to 1810) and relatively contained VIX might suggest less urgency from the Fed than some expect. I'm thinking about the scenario where stronger-than-expected economic data, or even persistent inflation, could drop that probability. A sustained move below 60% on that contract, especially if the CPI comes in hot, would be a good signal that the market is adjusting expectations, and would invalidate the current higher probability narrative for me.
It's a classic case of the market giving with one hand (strong SPX) and taking with the other (potential Fed inaction). One has to wonder if the Fed is just enjoying the show, popcorn in hand, letting us all speculate wildly while they decide to do... well, whatever they feel like doing.