monetary policy

Fed Chair Powell adopts wait-and-see approach on rates, warning inflation could trigger hikes and threaten the AI-driven market rally.

Johns Hopkins economist Steve Hanke warns US federal government is technically insolvent with $47.78 trillion liabilities versus $6.06 trillion assets, excluding $136 trillion in unfunded obligations.

Economist Peter Schiff warns of impending financial crisis after February import prices surged 1.3% and export prices rose 1.5%, annualizing to inflation rates of 16.8%-19.6% amid Iran tensions.

Fed Chair Powell holds rates at 3.50%-3.75%, resisting Trump pressure. Markets expect rates to remain unchanged through mid-2027, with Powell poised to maintain stance at his final meeting in May 2026.

BlackRock's CIO argues Fed patience is justified despite $820B market decline and oil surge, distinguishing temporary commodity shocks from structural inflation.

The Federal Reserve held rates steady at 3.50%-3.75% while revising inflation projections higher, signaling only two cuts through 2027 amid economic uncertainty.

Fed faces growing dissent and uncertainty as Warsh nomination threatens rate predictability, with his proposed policies favoring value stocks and floating-rate borrowers over growth equities.

Oil prices spike above $100 amid Iran tensions, threatening growth as weak February job losses and rising energy costs squeeze consumer spending and limit Fed flexibility.

Stock-bond portfolios failed to provide diversification during recent geopolitical turmoil. Investors should expand into gold, Bitcoin, and real estate for better multi-asset protection.

Experts warn three catalysts—record valuations, Middle East escalation, and Federal Reserve confusion—pose greater market risks than tariffs in 2026.

Producer inflation exceeded forecasts in January, driven by service sector pricing. The stronger-than-expected data may delay Federal Reserve rate cuts until later 2026.

Japan's Nikkei hits record 59,000 on policy optimism, while U.S. futures decline ahead of inflation data release that could keep rates elevated.

Fed Governor Waller says March rate decision depends on February jobs data. Strong January employment growth has shifted the Fed toward a more cautious approach on rate cuts.

Fed's Waller signals potential rate adjustments amid mixed economic signals. Strong consumer spending and declining inflation contrast with uneven labor market momentum.

Fed policy shifts could threaten the stock market's current rally, as incoming Chair Warsh's preference for balance sheet deleveraging may raise borrowing costs and dampen economic growth.