#PowellRemarks Here are the latest remarks from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell following the June 18 FOMC meeting:

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🔹 Main Takeaways from Powell’s Press Conference

1. Fed Keeps Rates Steady at 4.25–4.50%

The FOMC voted to maintain the target federal funds range, citing ongoing inflation above target and continued economic uncertainty .

2. Caution on Inflation from Tariffs

Powell warned that “someone has to pay for the tariffs”—signaling that import duties will likely push inflation higher in the months ahead .

3. Pending Two Rate Cuts But Timing Unclear

The Fed's dot-plot still forecasts two quarter-point rate cuts in 2025, though seven of 19 policymakers now see no cuts as necessary . Market bets have shifted such that the earliest cut isn't expected until September .

4. Strong Labor, Modest Growth, Elevated Uncertainty

Labor market near maximum employment with unemployment at about 4.2% .

GDP growth projected to slow to ~1.4% in 2025