Odaily News The Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged for the third consecutive meeting and emphasized that they believe the risks of both higher inflation and higher unemployment are increasing. The FOMC committee said, "Uncertainty about the economic outlook has increased further. The committee is paying attention to the risks facing both sides of its dual mission and judges that the risks of high unemployment and high inflation have increased." Officials voted unanimously to keep interest rates in the range of 4.25%-4.5%. The Fed said it would continue to reduce its balance sheet at the pace announced at its March meeting. Trump's trade policies have triggered a wave of uncertainty throughout the economy. While tariffs are still under negotiation, economists generally expect that comprehensive tariffs will push up inflation and drag down economic growth. This will put the two goals of policymakers (price stability and maximizing employment) at odds with each other. (Jinshi)