Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell has acknowledged the U.S. economy's current state, describing it as "generally maintaining a solid flow." However, in a statement reported by Walter Bloomberg, Powell cautioned that "uncertainty and downside risks still exist." He anticipates a slower growth rate in the first quarter compared to the previous year. Powell emphasized the importance of patience, stating that it is "advisable to wait until a clearer situation is confirmed before making policy changes." This suggests the Fed is adopting a cautious approach, carefully monitoring economic indicators before committing to any adjustments in monetary policy. This stance reflects the ongoing global economic headwinds and potential impacts on the U.S. economy. ```