The Federal Reserve is expected to hold rates steady at its April 29 meeting, likely the final one led by Jerome Powell. Sticky inflation near 3% and resilient labor conditions leave little room for cuts, despite slowing growth signals. Officials are increasingly focused on inflation risks, especially amid rising energy prices linked to Middle East tensions. Markets see virtually no chance of easing, while debate shifts toward how long restrictive policy must remain. With Kevin Warsh expected to

2026-04-29

The Federal Reserve is expected to hold rates steady at its April 29 meeting, likely the final one led by Jerome Powell. Sticky inflation near 3% and resilient labor conditions leave little room for cuts, despite slowing growth signals. Officials are increasingly focused on inflation risks, especially amid rising energy prices linked to Middle East tensions. Markets see virtually no chance of easing, while debate shifts toward how long restrictive policy must remain. With Kevin Warsh expected to succeed Powell, the meeting is viewed more as a transition point than a signal of imminent policy change.