Minutes from the January meeting of the Federal Reserve revealed that they would not lower interest rates right now and want to wait and see if inflation cooperates before making any further cuts. However, there was a divergence among members in terms of future policy ideas.

Some believe it is best to hold interest rates steady until they can interpret incoming data successfully. Others believe that rates might actually increase in the near future. With the Fed already divided among ideological lines, the gap could grow if Kevin Warsh is confirmed as the next chair, replacing Jerome Powell in May. Warsh is in favor of lower interest rates, a position also supported by the president. Everyone will keep a close eye on inflation as the Fed decides what to do moving forward in 2026 and beyond.

https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/18/fed-minutes-january-2026.html