AI Data Insight
The latest value for the lower bound of the US federal funds rate in the second quarter of 2026 was reported at 3.5%, remaining flat from the previous value and in line with the market's original expectation of holding steady. However, under the leadership of the new Chair, Kevin Warsh, the Federal Reserve significantly removed the easing bias from its statement and released hawkish signals in the dot plot. As inflation remains persistently high due to energy shocks, the market is repricing the risk of potential rate hikes before the end of the year.