U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said President Trump may choose the next Federal Reserve chairman as early as next week, narrowing the search to four candidates. Bessent confirmed Trump has already interviewed all finalists, a move that could reshape monetary policy leadership ahead of key economic decisions.

Bessent criticized current Fed Chair Jerome Powell for attending a Supreme Court hearing, calling it a mistake. He stressed the administration's commitment to central bank autonomy while expressing optimism about a U.S. productivity boom. Markets will watch closely for any signals on interest rate direction from the new pick.

The selection comes amid ongoing debates over Fed independence and inflation management. Investors are assessing potential impacts on bond yields and equity valuations. The final candidate will face pressure to balance growth support with price stability, shaping financial conditions for the remainder of 2026.