Global Central Bankers in "Full solidarity" with Fed's Powell
Claims that the Fed is “losing independence” are being reframed by James E. Thorne as misleading. According to this view, Chair Powell publicly suggested the DOJ was threatening a criminal indictment over his testimony on costly Fed building renovations—despite the DOJ never using that term. The U.S. Attorney’s Office had repeatedly sought clarification on cost overruns and testimony accuracy, but those requests were ignored until grand jury subpoenas were issued, after which Powell framed the situation as retaliation. Monetary policy independence remains intact, but it does not imply immunity from fiscal or legal oversight. Invoking “central bank independence” in this context is seen as an attempt to shield the Fed from accountability rather than a genuine threat to rate-setting autonomy. Source: Bloomberg, James E. Thorne @DrJStrategy
Strategists and economists at JPMorgan no longer expect the Fed to cut interest rates this year and see a rate hike next year
A forecast change made in response to December employment data released Friday. Source: Annmarie Hordern, Bloomberg
Fed Chair Powell says he’s under criminal investigation, won’t bow to Trump intimidation
Jerome Powell just dropped a bombshell. Federal prosecutors are officially investigating the Fed Chairman over a $2.5 billion renovation project. But according to Powell, this isn't about construction costs. It’s about independence. Here is what you need to know: The Charges: Grand jury subpoenas have been served regarding the $2.5B HQ renovation and Powell’s related testimony to Congress. The Conflict: Powell explicitly linked the probe to President Trump’s frustration over interest rate decisions. The Stakes: This isn't just a legal battle; it’s a fight for the soul of the central bank. Powell warns that if political pressure wins, evidence-based policy loses. The Market Reaction: Stock futures are already sliding as investors digest the news. Gold, Silver and Cryptos are up. The dollar is slightly down Why this matters for every professional: Central bank independence is the bedrock of global financial stability. If monetary policy becomes a political tool, the rules of the game change for everyone—from Wall Street to Main Street. Powell’s message is clear: Is the Fed driven by data or intimidation? The outcome of this investigation won't just impact Powell’s career—it will redefine the future of the Fed independence.
NEW POLYMARKET: JPow charged?
Will Trump follow through? Source : Polymarket
Powell has the highest approval rating of any “political leader” in the country.
Source: Joe Weisenthal @TheStalwart Gallup
Fed to the rescue of banks again ???
REPO $26B on Monday 8:30 am
The odds of a January rate cut have fallen to just 22% 🚨
Source: Barchart @Barchart
The Bank of Japan just threaded the needle. 🧵
Rate hike? Yes. Market crash? No. In fact, it’s the exact opposite. Here is why the "Carry Trade Collapse" everyone feared just got cancelled (for now). The Headline: The BOJ raised rates by 25 bps to 0.75%. It was priced in, expected, and delivered with a heavy dose of "don't panic." Why the markets are rallying: The BoJ basically told the world: "We’re raising rates, but we aren't pulling the rug." Real Rates stay LOW: The BOJ explicitly stated that real interest rates will remain at significantly low levels. This is classic Financial Repression. Accommodative Stance: Even with the hike, the monetary environment remains "supportive." They are still cheering for the economy. The Stimulus Paradox: While the BOJ lifts rates, the Japanese government is simultaneously releasing a massive stimulus package. The "Risk-On" Reaction: Usually, a rate hike strengthens a currency. But today? The Yen is weakening. 📉 This is the "Green Light" for risk assets. If the Yen doesn't spike, the Yen Carry Trade doesn't unwind. The result: Equities: UP 📈 Bitcoin: UP 🚀 Bond Yields: UP 📊 (10 year ABOVE 2%) Yen: DOWN (156) The Takeaway: Governor Ueda is playing a dangerous game of balance, but for today, he’s the market's best friend. Liquidity is still flowing, the "cheap money" isn't disappearing overnight, and the global carry trade lives to see another day. Is this the "Goldilocks" scenario for the end of 2025, or is the market ignoring a looming Yen spike? Source: FinancialJuice @financialjuice SWING BLASTER 🥷🕉️🔱 @swing_blaster
