Fed Update | January 2026 FOMC Reaction

The Federal Reserve signaled that policy will remain in a holding pattern. Risks to employment and inflation appear to have lessened and the economic outlook has improved. A sharp deceleration in prices or rapid deterioration in labor markets could change the Fed's thinking and compel lowering rates sooner, but the FOMC believe they are "well-positioned" to consider the "extent and timing" of future policy adjustments. Given concerns surrounding the central bank's independence and Powell's successor as Chair, the Fed appears set to hold through April - if not longer.