Brew Markets A Divided and Data-Blind Fed Decision & Cracker Barrel Reheats the Brand
Dec 10, 2025
The Fed's surprising quarter-point rate cut raises eyebrows as critics question its timing and potential impact on Jerome Powell's legacy. Cracker Barrel grapples with declining sales and costly rebranding efforts while facing pressure to improve customer experience. Chewy reports solid earnings and plans to expand its brick-and-mortar vet clinics to enhance customer retention. Meanwhile, GE Vernova positions itself for power demand growth, and Walmart innovates with 3D-printed store additions to streamline operations.
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Data-Short Fed Cut Undermines Credibility
- The Fed cut rates despite being data-light because key October metrics were missing due to the government shutdown.
- Ann Berry argues this undermines the Fed's data-driven credibility and may reflect legacy-focused politics.
Fed Injects Liquidity To Stabilize Banks
- The Fed accelerated short-term Treasury purchases to inject liquidity and support bank reserves.
- Berry says this move signals concern about banking system strains that need further explanation.
Pause Rate Moves Until New Data Arrives
- Wait for the November data before assuming more rate cuts; a one-month pause preserves data-driven decision-making.
- Berry recommends delaying additional easing until incoming metrics can be reviewed.