Federal Reserve warns a ‘thick fog of uncertainty’ as the coronavirus pandemic surrounds battered economy

On Tuesday, United States Federal Reserve officials warned a “thick fog of uncertainty” on the U.S. economy as it slowly recovers amid the surge in coronavirus cases. The U.S. central bank stated that the pandemic’s second wave would cause economic pain to deepen again.

The U.S. coronavirus cases rose in 46 out of 50 states last week while deaths increased nationally for the first time since April 2020.

“The pandemic remains the key driver of the economy’s course. A thick fog of uncertainty still surrounds us, and downside risks predominate,” Federal Reserve’s Governor Lael Brainard stated in a virtual event hosted by the National Association for Business Economics (NABE).

“The recovery likely will face headwinds for some time, calling for a sustained commitment to accommodation, along with additional fiscal support,” she added.

The U.S. stock benchmarks added to gains on Tuesday afternoon trading right after Federal Reserve’s announcement.