Federal Reserve Maintains Interest Rates, Downgrades Economic Forecasts
The Fed projects slower growth, higher inflation, and rising unemployment as it navigates uncertainties tied to President Trump's policies.
- The Federal Reserve kept interest rates steady, citing increased economic uncertainty under President Trump's administration.
- Economic forecasts were downgraded, with GDP growth now expected at 1.7%, inflation at 2.7%, and unemployment at 4.4% by year-end.
- The Fed plans two rate cuts of 0.25% each later in 2025 to address economic risks while managing persistent inflation above its 2% target.
- Uncertainty surrounding new tariffs and federal spending cuts has influenced the Fed's cautious approach to monetary policy.
- President Trump has publicly pressured the Fed to lower rates further, while economists criticize his policies as potentially harmful to economic stability.