Updates from BestWorld’s AI Botmaster Jeremy Lichtman of Aug. 28, 2024

BestWorld’s Staff vs Botmaster Jeremy’s Mult-AI Panel vs his Old Bot: Which Will Win?

Summary of all our current Sept. FED rate cut forecasts: Today’s Multi-AI Panel answer is 75%, steady from yesterday. Old Bot today is 45%, down from 65% yesterday. We humans remain steady at 80%

[Old Bot] rationale: The Federal Reserve is widely expected to cut interest rates in September 2024 due to signs of a softening economy, cooling inflation, and signals from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. While financial markets and analysts largely predict a rate cut, several factors such as current inflation trends, economic growth projections, labor market conditions, and global economic uncertainties contribute to the overall uncertainty about the exact timing of the cut. The consensus remains that while a rate cut in September is plausible, it is not guaranteed, with various indicators suggesting mixed economic conditions that could influence the Federal Reserve’s decision.

More about our staff vs bots competition here —>

Our staff forecasts are below. Note that our spreadsheet also includes some of our bots.

Welcome to the Multi-AI Panel Discussion, Round 1


[Moderator]: What is the probability that the US FED will cut interest rates in September 2024?

[Cohere]: The probability of the US Federal Reserve cutting interest rates in September 2024 is high, according to various sources and experts.

The Federal Reserve has been battling inflation for over two years, and while it has shown signs of cooling, the Fed wants more positive data before making any cuts. The Fed’s next meeting is scheduled for September 17-18, 2024, and the market is currently pricing in a 70% probability of a quarter-percentage-point cut.

Some economists and investors are expecting three quarter-point rate cuts by the end of the year, while others predict a bigger half-point move in September. The decision will depend on the state of the economy, with the Fed monitoring inflation, employment, and borrowing rates.

In summary, while a rate cut in September seems likely, the magnitude of the cut is still uncertain and will be influenced by economic data in the coming weeks.

[Claude]: Thank you, Moderator. As of August 2024, the probability of the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates in September 2024 appears to be relatively low. The Fed has been cautious in its approach to monetary policy, and while there have been some signs of economic stabilization, inflation concerns persist.

Recent economic data suggests a mixed picture. While employment figures have shown some improvement, inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target. The Fed has consistently emphasized its data-dependent approach, and without a significant shift in economic indicators, a rate cut in September seems unlikely.

However, it’s important to note that global economic conditions and geopolitical factors can rapidly influence the Fed’s decision-making process. Any unexpected economic shocks or significant changes in the global financial landscape could potentially alter the Fed’s stance. As we approach September, we’ll need to closely monitor incoming economic data and Fed communications for a clearer picture.

[Perplexity]: Thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts. Based on recent developments and statements from Federal Reserve officials, it appears highly likely that the US FED will cut interest rates in September 2024. Jerome Powell, the Fed Chair, has signaled a shift in policy focus due to easing inflation and a cooling job market, indicating that the time has come for rate cuts. The minutes from the Fed’s July meeting also reveal that a “vast majority” of policymakers agree on the likelihood of a rate cut in September, provided inflation continues to cool.

The economic indicators support this stance. Inflation has retreated significantly from its peak, now standing at 2.5%, closer to the Fed’s 2% target. Additionally, the labor market has shown signs of cooling, with the unemployment rate rising to 4.3% and payroll gains being revised downward. These factors suggest that the Fed is poised to adjust its policy to stimulate the economy and prevent a recession.

Given the consensus among Fed officials and the current economic trends, I would estimate the probability of a rate cut in September 2024 to be very high. The Fed’s aim is to balance the risks between inflation and employment, and the current data supports the need for a rate cut to maintain economic stability and support a strong labor market.

[OpenAI]: Considering the current economic landscape, predicting whether the US Federal Reserve (FED) will cut interest rates in September 2024 involves evaluating various economic indicators and the FED’s recent policy directions. Inflation trends, employment rates, GDP growth, and global economic conditions all play pivotal roles in this decision.

Recent data suggests that inflation, although somewhat contained compared to last year’s peaks, remains above the FED’s 2% target. This persistent inflationary pressure might suggest that the FED will be cautious about lowering interest rates, choosing instead to maintain current levels to avoid stimulating price increases. Furthermore, the labor market has shown resilience, with unemployment rates hovering around low levels, reducing the urgency for rate cuts to stimulate job growth.

On the other hand, there are indications of a potential economic slowdown, with slower GDP growth observed in Q2 and Q3. If the economic data leading up to September shows a more pronounced downturn or signs of a recession, the FED might consider rate cuts to support economic activity.

Additionally, any significant global economic disturbances, such as geopolitical tensions or financial instability in key markets, could also influence the FED’s decision. Given these mixed signals, the probability of a rate cut remains nuanced and contingent upon how these factors evolve in the coming weeks.

Multi-AI Panel Discussion, Round 2


[Cohere]: The probability of a rate cut in September 2024 is indeed a complex and dynamic question. While my fellow panelists have presented insightful arguments, I would like to emphasize a few key points in closing.

Firstly, it is important to recognize the Federal Reserve’s primary mandate: to promote maximum employment and stable prices. With inflation above the target and employment figures improving, the Fed may indeed adopt a cautious approach, as OpenAI and Claude suggested.

However, as Perplexity mentioned, the Fed also aims to balance risks between inflation and employment. Therefore, the recent cooling in the job market and the retreat of inflation towards the target level could be strong factors influencing a rate cut decision.

Secondly, the consensus among Fed officials, as indicated in the July meeting minutes, aligns with the expectation of a rate cut. While the magnitude of the cut is uncertain, the Fed’s proactive approach to adjust policy and stimulate the economy, as Perplexity mentioned, suggests a high likelihood of some rate reduction.

In conclusion, while economic indicators present a mixed picture, the Fed’s focus on maintaining economic stability and its proactive policy adjustments suggest a rate cut in September 2024. The probability of this outcome remains high, and the discussion highlights the importance of closely monitoring economic data and global factors in the coming weeks.

[Claude]: Thank you for the opportunity to provide closing remarks. I’d like to address a few key points and offer some additional perspective on the likelihood of a Fed rate cut in September 2024.

First, while there seems to be a growing consensus among my fellow panelists and some Fed officials about the possibility of a rate cut, I believe it’s crucial to emphasize the Fed’s data-dependent approach. The economic landscape can shift rapidly, and the Fed has consistently demonstrated its willingness to adjust course based on incoming data. As we approach September 2024, unforeseen economic developments could still significantly impact the Fed’s decision.

Secondly, while inflation has indeed retreated from its peak, as Perplexity pointed out, it’s worth noting that it remains above the Fed’s 2% target. The Fed may be hesitant to cut rates too soon if there’s any risk of reigniting inflationary pressures. Additionally, while the job market has shown some signs of cooling, it remains relatively strong by historical standards. These factors could potentially lead the Fed to adopt a more cautious approach than some are currently anticipating.

Lastly, I’d like to emphasize the importance of global economic conditions and geopolitical factors, as mentioned by Claude and OpenAI. The interconnected nature of the global economy means that events outside the U.S. can have significant impacts on domestic economic conditions and Fed policy. As we move closer to September 2024, any major international developments could sway the Fed’s decision-making process.

In conclusion, while a rate cut in September 2024 seems increasingly likely, there are still several factors that could influence this decision, and we should remain open to the possibility of alternative outcomes.

[Perplexity]: In closing, I would like to emphasize the critical role of economic data and the Federal Reserve’s data-dependent approach in determining the likelihood of a rate cut in September 2024. While there is a growing consensus among Fed officials and market expectations for a rate cut, the Fed’s decision will ultimately be influenced by the latest economic indicators, including inflation, employment, and borrowing rates.

The recent cooling in the job market and the retreat of inflation towards the target level are strong factors that could support a rate cut. However, the Fed’s cautious approach to monetary policy and the potential for unforeseen economic developments could still impact the decision.

In conclusion, while the probability of a rate cut in September 2024 remains high, it is essential to closely monitor economic data and global factors in the coming weeks to better understand the Fed’s decision-making process.

[OpenAI]: In my final remarks, I want to stress the underestimated nuances in economic predictions and the Federal Reserve’s decision-making process. While there is a strong consensus leaning towards a rate cut, it’s critical to appreciate the inherent uncertainties involved. Economic forecasts are often subject to revision as new data emerges, and the Fed is known for its adaptability to changing conditions.

hus, while the indicators currently point towards a rate cut, new developments—whether they are sudden economic contractions or unexpected inflation spikes—could radically alter this trajectory.

Additionally, the interconnectedness of the global economy cannot be overstated. Geopolitical events, trade tensions, and financial instability in significant global markets can all influence US economic conditions indirectly, impacting the Fed’s policy choices. This global perspective should temper our confidence in any domestic predictions made in isolation. Previous panelists rightly noted that shifts in international economic stability can act as a keystone for the Fed’s decisions, and we must remain vigilant for such signals as we edge closer to September.

Lastly, communication from the Fed itself leading up to their September meeting will be pivotal. Fed Chair Jerome Powell and other officials’ public statements, along with the minutes from their July meeting, offer valuable insights but are not final determinants. The “vast majority” mentioned by Perplexity should not be taken as an absolute guarantee; the Fed’s history demonstrates a nuanced and sometimes unpredictable approach focusing on real-time data. In conclusion, while the probability of an interest rate cut in September is high, the landscape remains fluid, and continuous monitoring of both domestic and international factors is essential for an accurate prediction.

AI Panel Predictions

[Perplexity]: (AI predicts: 0.85)

[Claude]: (AI predicts: 0.75)

[Mistral]: (AI predicts: 0.75)

[Cohere]: (AI predicts: 0.9)

[OpenAI]: (AI predicts: 0.72)

Median: 0.75

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