The Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged at its April meeting, but four officials voted in dissent, marking the highest level of disagreement in nearly 34 years.
The Federal Reserve’s April monetary policy meeting begins today with markets widely expecting rates to hold steady. This may be Chair Jerome Powell’s final rate decision before his term ends.
The Bank of Japan kept its policy rate unchanged in a 6-3 split vote, while raising its inflation forecast, reflecting concerns about the economic impact of the Iran conflict.
The Federal Reserve is widely expected to hold rates steady at its April meeting as Iran-related risks drive inflation concerns and the potential Powell-to-Warsh transition adds uncertainty.
A UK government minister warns that supply chain disruptions from the Iran war could keep prices elevated for up to eight months, as officials monitor stock levels and prepare contingency plans.