Kevin Warsh’s appointment as Federal Reserve Chair and the central bank’s September 2026 quarter-point rate hike have anchored trader expectations that the policy rate will stay above 2.5%. Hotter-than-expected inflation readings, combined with Warsh’s repeated emphasis on delivering price stability and reluctance to provide forward guidance, have reinforced this view and pushed the probability of an October hike sharply lower while keeping December tightening odds elevated. Recent comments from Warsh and other FOMC members highlight comfort with pausing near-term but openness to further adjustments if data warrant. A sharp slowdown in inflation or clear signs of labor-market weakness could still open the door to easier policy, though current evidence points to sustained restraint.