#PowellRemarks

Powell emphasized the Fed’s data-driven, cautious approach, keeping the federal funds rate at 4.25–4.50%. He noted inflation remains “somewhat elevated” and expressed concern over upcoming tariff-driven price increases, warning consumers will ultimately bear those costs . Growth forecasts were trimmed—2025 GDP projected at ~1.4%—while inflation outlook nudged higher, with core PCE seen near 3.1% . He highlighted persistent uncertainty tied to trade policy, tariffs, and global conflicts, and said the Fed won’t cut rates until it’s confident inflation is clearly declining . Powell also defended maintaining strong economic data collection capabilities to guide policy accurately .