Powell speech: Next few months are likely to be very challenging

Following the Federal Open Market Committee's (FOMC) decision to keep the policy rate unchanged within the target range of 0-0.25%, Jerome Powell, Chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, is delivering his comments on the policy outlook.

Key quotes

"Outlook for the economy is uncertain, will depend on the virus."

"Recent vaccine news very positive."

"Surge in coronavirus cases is particularly concerning."

"Next few months are likely to be very challenging."

"Balance sheet increase has supported the economy."

"Increase in balance sheet will ensure the policy remains accommodative."

About Jerome Powell (via Federalreserve.gov)

Jerome H. Powell took office as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System on February 5, 2018, for a four-year term. Mr. Powell also serves as Chairman of the Federal Open Market Committee, the System's principal monetary policymaking body. Mr. Powell has served as a member of the Board of Governors since taking office on May 25, 2012, to fill an unexpired term. He was reappointed to the Board and sworn in on June 16, 2014, for a term ending January 31, 2028.