Jerome Powell Has Spoken 🤯

President Donald Trump publicly urged the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates, but prediction market data shows that bettors remain skeptical the central bank will act in May. What Happened: According to decentralized forecasting platform Polymarket, 72% of market participants believe the Federal Reserve will hold rates steady at its next meeting on May 7, with only 24% pricing in a 25 basis point cut, and a mere 2.7% expecting a deeper 50+ bps reduction. In a post on Truth Social on Friday, the former president pressed Fed Chair Jerome Powell to act, writing, "This would be a PERFECT time for Fed Chairman Jerome Powell to cut Interest Rates… CUT INTEREST RATES, JEROME, AND STOP PLAYING POLITICS!" Trump cited lower inflation, falling energy prices, and stronger employment as justification for immediate easing. However, the Fed appears in no rush to move. Chair Powell has repeatedly signaled caution, emphasizing the need for "greater clarity" before adjusting monetary policy. "It feels like the Fed does not need to be in a hurry," Powell said on Friday, adding that inflationary impacts from Trump's tariff package could further complicate decision-making. "The tariffs are bigger than almost all forecasters expected," Powell noted, warning they could raise inflation in the coming quarters with "more persistent effects possible." Check out www.benzinga.com for complete coverage along with all the latest financial news and data! Follow us on socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benzinga Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benzinga TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benzinga X: https://www.x.com/benzinga Disclaimer: Trading in financial markets involves significant risk, and there is no guarantee of profit. The information provided by any financial product or service is for educational purposes and should not be considered as financial advice. Before making any investment decisions, it's important to conduct thorough research and consult with a qualified financial advisor. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Always invest what you can afford to lose and be aware of the potential for loss in any investment strategy. #jeromepowell #stockmarket #market #rates #economy #donaldtrump #tariffs #inflation