[Federal Reserve Expected to Hold Steady, Powell's Future in Focus] Reported by Jinse Finance, on April 29, uncertainties surrounding the economic outlook and changes in central bank leadership have cast a shadow over this week's Federal Reserve meeting, with officials expected to keep interest rates unchanged on Wednesday. The Iran war has led to surging energy prices and disrupted supply chains, increasing the likelihood of rising inflation and slowing economic growth, prompting policymakers to signal a current preference for a wait-and-see approach. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) is expected to maintain the federal funds rate target range at 3.5%-3.75% for the third consecutive meeting. In what is likely to be Jerome Powell's final press conference as Federal Reserve Chair, investors will seek clues about how long the Fed intends to maintain this patient stance. However, what may garner more attention is Powell's statement regarding his future role at the Fed. Powell has hinted that after his term as Chair expires on May 15, he may continue to serve as a member of the Federal Reserve Board. Officials are set to release their post-meeting statement at 2:00 PM local time in Washington on Wednesday, with Powell's press conference scheduled to follow 30 minutes later. Federal Reserve observers anticipate that this policy statement will not differ significantly from March's, though there may be minor adjustments. For instance, officials might revise their description of the labor market to reflect recent data showing that while hiring numbers are relatively low, the labor market has stabilized. (Dongxin News Agency)