The Federal Reserve announced Wednesday that it will maintain its current benchmark interest rate, marking the fourth straight meeting without a rate change.
This decision keeps borrowing costs high for American consumers and businesses. The Fed is holding off on any rate adjustments while it gathers more data on how President Trump’s aggressive tariff agenda and ongoing Middle East tensions might impact the economy.
Despite the U.S. economy demonstrating resilience under current conditions, there are signs that both businesses and consumers are pulling back on spending as they await more clarity on economic policy.
The decision drew criticism from President Trump, who called Fed Chair Jerome Powell “stupid” and suggested he could do a better job leading the central bank.