Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is scheduled to address the public at 2:30 PM ET following the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting, which is particularly significant as it may be his last before his term expires on May 15. The Fed is anticipated to keep the benchmark interest rates steady at 3.50% to 3.75% for the third consecutive meeting. This comes during a volatile period for the U.S. economy, characterized by persistent inflation, slowing job growth, and uncertainties arising from rising energy prices linked to geopolitical tensions involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran. Analysts, including Nancy Vanden Houten from Oxford Economics, are keenly observing any changes in the Fed's assessment of economic risks since the last meeting. The dynamics surrounding Powell's potential successor, Kevin Warsh, have intensified, with political pressures from former President Donald Trump complicating the situation. Despite the end of his chairmanship approaching, Powell could remain on the board until 2028, which may provide stability during the transition. Traders will closely analyze Powell's remarks for insights on inflation, recession risks, and potential future interest rate hikes.