Rising US inflation expectations and a deteriorating job outlook may prevent the Federal Reserve from adjusting interest rates this month.

According to the New York Federal Reserve's monthly survey, U.S. inflation expectations rose in December, while views on job opportunities fell to their lowest level in at least 12.5 years. The report stated that consumers expect prices to rise 3.4% over the next year, up from 3.2% in November. Consumers' estimates of the probability of finding new work after losing their jobs fell to 43.1%, the lowest level since the bank began conducting its consumer expectations survey in mid-2013. These figures highlight the divergence among Federal Reserve officials who are more concerned about inflation than those who see a greater risk of rising unemployment. This gap is likely to prevent the Fed from adjusting interest rates at its next policy meeting later this month. (Jinshi)