Federal Reserve minutes released from the central bank’s latest policy meeting show officials remained focused on the risk that inflation could stay too high for longer than expected. According to the record, several participants said the outlook for price pressures was still unusually uncertain.

The discussion suggests policymakers are not yet convinced that inflation is on a smooth path back to target. While the economy has shown resilience in recent months, the minutes indicate lingering concern that stubborn prices could complicate decisions on interest rates in the months ahead.

The document also underscores a cautious stance inside the Fed as officials weigh whether progress on inflation can be sustained. That tension has become central to the central bank’s policy debate: moving too soon could reignite price growth, while waiting too long could slow the economy more than necessary.

The minutes did not signal an immediate policy shift, but they reinforced the message that inflation remains a key risk for the Fed. Markets will now watch upcoming data closely for signs of whether price pressures are easing enough to give policymakers greater confidence.