Recall that staff forecasts were rev down for growth, up for inflation. Members said the econ recovery was on firmer footing, broadly as expected, gaining traction; labor mkt improving gradually; credit conds remained uneven. They expected energy, commods to boost infl but said this should be transitory (also lowers growth). Overall risks seen as 'roughly balanced.' Members said will watch infl expectations (currently stable in a slack environment) for hints thepublic expects excessive price moves. MENA, Japan, etc increase uncertainty.