Overview
- The Federal Open Market Committee voted 10–2 to keep the benchmark rate unchanged, with Governors Christopher Waller and Stephen Miran dissenting in favor of a quarter‑point cut.
- The statement noted solid economic growth and “somewhat elevated” inflation, and dropped prior language about rising downside risks to employment.
- Unemployment stood at 4.4% in December with job gains described as low, while investors largely anticipated a hold and now look to mid‑year for a possible first cut depending on data.
- The pause follows three quarter‑point reductions in late 2025, and officials offered no guidance on the timing or size of further moves.
- Political tensions intensified as Chair Jerome Powell disclosed DOJ subpoenas he called pressure on the Fed, the White House sought to remove Governor Lisa Cook, and markets awaited Trump’s nominee to succeed Powell when his term ends in May.