Iran War Intensifies Fed Divisions: Waller Turns Cautious, Bowman Sticks to Three Rate Cuts This Year

Odaily News Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller revealed that he would have voted against holding rates steady again this week, but paused due to the Iran war; Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman maintained her expectation for three rate cuts in 2026, optimistic about economic growth. Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller said on Friday that he is cautious about the inflationary impact of surging oil prices against the backdrop of the Iran war, although a softening labor market could still lead him to support rate cuts later this year. Waller, who dissented against the Fed's decision to hold rates steady in January, stated he would have voted against again this week, but the Iran war caused him to pause that thought.

In an interview with Fox Business, Federal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman said she still maintains her expectation for three 25-basis-point rate cuts in 2026. Bowman also praised the plan announced this week, which will ease capital requirements for Wall Street's lending giants, potentially freeing up tens of billions of dollars for lending, stock buybacks, and dividend payments. (Jin10)