The Federal Reserve announced it will keep its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 4.3%, following three consecutive cuts last year. Fed Chair Jerome Powell cited uncertainty around inflation and potential economic policies under President Trump as factors in this cautious approach. With hiring slight and the unemployment rate low at 4.1%, the Fed deemed the job market solid but expressed concerns over elevated inflation levels. Futures suggest a rate cut might not happen before mid-2025. Trump's demand for lower rates may not affect Fed policy, which operates independently from political pressure.