Inside the Federal Reserve: Policy, markets, and what’s next

In this episode, Phillip Neuhart, Head of Market and Economic Research and Thomas O’Keefe, Managing Director of Portfolio Strategy, are joined by Market and Economic Research Analyst Blake Taylor to discuss the Federal Reserve’s evolving policy outlook. With a new Fed Chair stepping in at a pivotal moment, the conversation places today’s policy environment in historical context while also examining interest rates, inflation, and the labor market. Gain insight into monetary policy decision making, the Fed’s dual mandate, and how current conditions compare with prior economic cycles. What could recent developments mean for financial markets, Fed communication, and the path of future policy? And why does any of it matter for long-term investors? The Federal Reserve is just one of several important factors shaping markets today—including geopolitical risk and artificial intelligence investment. This episode helps frame how these interconnected forces may influence portfolio strategy and long-term portfolio outcomes.