Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's April 29, 2026, press conference following the FOMC's two-day meeting—his likely final one before his May 15 term ends—centers trader focus amid a leadership transition to nominee Kevin Warsh. Recent data, including the April 15 Beige Book noting moderate price rises and tightening financial conditions, alongside resilient GDP growth near 2.4%, steady unemployment around 4.4%, and stubborn inflation fueled by oil shocks from Iran tensions and tariff impacts, point to rates held at 3.50%-3.75% with four dissenting votes signaling internal divisions. Powell emphasized a cautious, data-dependent stance prioritizing the dual mandate of price stability and maximum employment, with no rush for cuts despite geopolitical uncertainties. Markets eye his remarks on Fed independence and economic projections for signals on future policy.