Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady, Lowers Growth Forecast
The Fed maintains rates at 4.25%-4.5% while projecting slower economic growth and higher inflation, citing uncertainty from President Trump's tariff policies.
- The Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates unchanged at 4.25%-4.5%, a level maintained since December 2024.
- The Fed revised its 2025 economic growth forecast downward to 1.7% from 2.1%, reflecting a more pessimistic outlook.
- Inflation is now projected to reach 2.7% in 2025, exceeding the Fed's 2% target, with tariffs contributing significantly to price pressures.
- Chair Jerome Powell acknowledged increased recession risk but emphasized it remains moderate, not high.
- The decision to hold rates steady was not unanimous, highlighting internal debate within the Federal Reserve.