Key facts
- Kevin Warsh was sworn in as the 17th chair of the Federal Reserve on May 22, 2026.
- Warsh's first FOMC meeting is scheduled for June 16-17.
- Economists and strategists are uncertain about Warsh's policy direction.
- Expectations are for interest rates to remain steady through year-end.
- Persistent inflation and energy price volatility are influencing rate expectations.
Kevin Warsh assumed the role of the 17th chair of the Federal Reserve on May 22, 2026. He is set to preside over his inaugural Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting, scheduled for June 16-17. Following his swearing-in, economists and strategists have voiced uncertainty about the policy path Warsh will pursue. The prevailing sentiment among analysts is that interest rates are likely to remain unchanged through the end of 2026. This outlook is attributed to persistent inflationary pressures and significant volatility in energy prices. The Federal Reserve's next steps will be closely watched for any indications of a shift in monetary policy under the new leadership.