特朗普要搞“美联储主席最终面试”，哈塞特尚未“板上钉钉”，贝森特仍有望后续接任？

Core Viewpoint - The selection process for the next Federal Reserve Chair is nearing its conclusion, with current frontrunner Hassett facing competition and uncertainty regarding the final decision [1][2]. Group 1: Candidates and Selection Process - Hassett is currently the leading candidate to succeed Powell, but the final decision is not guaranteed, as Trump has initiated a final round of interviews [1]. - Other candidates include Walsh, Waller, Bowman, and BlackRock executive Rick Reed, with the final decision expected in early January [1]. - There is speculation that Hassett may serve a shorter term than the usual four years, which could allow for future flexibility in appointments [2]. Group 2: Role of Treasury Secretary - Treasury Secretary Mnuchin plays a crucial role in the selection process, having submitted a list of candidates that includes Hassett and Walsh [3]. - Although Trump has expressed a desire for Mnuchin to take the Fed Chair position, Mnuchin has indicated he is not interested [3]. - A potential shorter term for Hassett could pave the way for Mnuchin to assume the Fed Chair role later in Trump's second term, indicating a long-term strategic consideration [3]. Group 3: Market Concerns and Responses - Some bond investors have expressed concerns about Hassett's potential for aggressive rate cuts, fearing it could lead to sustained inflation and impact the $30 trillion U.S. debt market [4]. - To address these concerns, Hassett emphasized the importance of central bank independence and the need to focus on economic data rather than political pressures [4]. - The selection process occurs against the backdrop of Trump's ongoing criticism of Powell for not lowering borrowing costs quickly or significantly enough, with expectations of a 25 basis point rate cut announcement [4].