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Fed Chair Jerome Powell said he is staying in his role even after officials voted 11–1 on Wednesday to hold interest rates steady. The decision kept the central bank’s benchmark rate in the 3.5% to 3.75% range, extending a stretch of elevated borrowing costs while inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target.
While markets broadly expected the rate hold, the focus has shifted to Powell’s next move. His tenure as chair is set to expire on May 15, and investors are watching for any indication of whether he will leave or remain on the Board of Governors. That outcome could influence perceptions of the Fed’s independence.
At the same time, Kevin Warsh is moving closer to the top job. His nomination has cleared the Senate Banking Committee, setting up a final confirmation vote in the coming days.
Premium gym chains are entering a “golden era” that is ending or already in decline, as rising operating costs collide with shifting consumer preferences toward more flexible, community-based ways to exercise. Long-term memberships are shrinking, margins are pressured by higher rents and facility expenses, and competition from smaller, more personalized…
