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Trump’s Escalation Against Fed Chair Powell Roils Markets

President Trump’s intensified criticism of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and calls for immediate rate cuts have fueled market turmoil and raised concerns about the Fed’s independence.

Stock market plunges into crisis amid Trump vs Powell battle
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The bull and bear sculptures outside the stock market in Frankfurt, Germany, on April 16.
U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell speaks during a press conference, in Washington, U.S., January 29, 2025.

Overview

  • Major U.S. stock indexes fell over 3% on Monday, with the Dow losing more than 1,200 points, as investors reacted to Trump's renewed attacks on Powell.
  • The U.S. dollar hit a three-year low, while gold surged to a record high above $3,400 an ounce as investors sought safe-haven assets.
  • Trump’s public threats to fire Powell, despite legal barriers, have heightened fears over the Federal Reserve’s autonomy and credibility.
  • White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett confirmed that the administration is studying the legality of removing Powell, sparking further uncertainty.
  • The ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China, combined with monetary policy disputes, have exacerbated market volatility and economic concerns.