Published 23 days ago • loading... • Updated 22 days ago
Bessent OK with Fed holding off on interest rate cuts at next meeting
Bessent said the central bank should wait as oil prices jump and inflation expectations rise, while still backing future cuts.
Scott Bessent said the administration expects that the Federal Reserve will not cut interest rates before Chair Jerome Powell's term ends in mid-May and prefers waiting for Kevin Warsh to lead rate decisions afterward.
Kevin Warsh's nomination to succeed Powell has advanced but faces delays from Sen. Thom Tillis, who will not advance the confirmation until a Justice Department investigation into the Fed's renovation is complete.
Bessent praised recent economic strength and noted efforts to control oil prices along with a stock market higher than in late February despite concerns about deficits and growth projections.
Bessent expects Warsh to review Federal Reserve policy and management with an open-minded approach while leading the next rate cycle.