Indebted consumers, slower economic growth, potential for recession are key factors in play
Mester's comments are notable because she is among the more consistently hawkish members
Growing macroeconomic headwinds weighing on credit outlooks, Fitch says
Data from the bank's customers suggest strong Q4 retail sales
Energy prices lead decline, while lumber and metals drop too
The annual inflation rate slowed last month to 6.3%
Businesses and consumers expect inflation to remain elevated in the short term and ease within five years
More than half say they'll be in financial trouble if interest rates go up much more
The average home price in December was down 12% from a year earlier
Stronger core inflation expected to drive higher rates in euro area