In his first public remarks after finishing his term as Federal Reserve chair, Jerome Powell delivered a clear warning about the challenges facing the central bank.Speaking at the John F.

Kennedy 'Profile in Courage' award ceremony, Powell emphasized that the Fed is undergoing a 'stress test' and that its credibility is crucial for maintaining a strong and stable economy.

Although he did not directly mention the Trump administration, his comments were widely interpreted as a response to political pressures, including an attempted firing of Fed governor Lisa Cook and a criminal investigation into the Fed's building renovation.

Powell stressed that protecting the Fed's independence from political influence ensures that decisions are made based on sound economic analysis, benefiting all Americans.

He also praised the Fed's career staff as dedicated public servants and underscored the importance of safeguarding the institution's credibility for future generations.

The new Fed chair, Kevin Warsh, has expressed a desire for structural reforms, but Powell's remarks focused on the need to respect the rule of law and maintain public trust in the institution.