[Goldman Sachs Chief Economist: Fed Expected to Continue Making Decisions Based on Data, Unaffected by Investigative Pressure] BlockBeats News, January 12 — Goldman Sachs Chief Economist Jan Hatzius stated on Monday that the threat of criminal charges against the Federal Reserve Chair would heighten market concerns about the central bank's independence. However, he expects the Fed to continue making policy decisions based on economic data. Speaking at the 2026 Goldman Sachs Global Strategy Conference, Hatzius said: 'Clearly, concerns about potential impacts on the Fed's independence are increasing, and the latest news regarding the criminal investigation into Chair Powell further reinforces these concerns.' He added: 'I have no doubt that Powell will continue to make decisions based on economic data during the remainder of his term, without being swayed by pressure in any direction—whether it be raising or lowering rates, all decisions will follow data guidance.' (Jin10)