Fed Governor Miran Pushes for Aggressive Rate Cuts as Janus Henderson Seals $7.4B Acquisition and VIX Dips to Three-Month Low

Group 1: Federal Reserve Policy - Federal Reserve Governor Stephen Miran is advocating for deeper interest rate cuts, suggesting the federal funds rate should be reduced to approximately 2%, which is about half of its current level [2][3] - Miran's stance contrasts with many of his colleagues, as he recently dissented from a 25-basis-point rate cut, instead calling for a more aggressive 50-basis-point reduction [3] - He believes that factors such as immigration policy, deregulation, and tariff revenues will have a disinflationary impact, which has been underestimated by forecasters [3] Group 2: Janus Henderson Acquisition - Janus Henderson Group plc has agreed to be acquired by Trian Fund Management and General Catalyst in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $7.4 billion, with shareholders set to receive $49.00 per share [4][5] - The acquisition price represents an 18% premium to Janus Henderson's unaffected closing price on October 24, 2025, and a 6.5% premium over the closing price prior to the announcement [5] - The transaction is expected to close in mid-2026, pending regulatory approvals, and Janus Henderson will continue to operate under its current management team [6] Group 3: Market Volatility - The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) has fallen to an over three-month low, closing at 14.83, indicating reduced investor anxiety and a perceived lower risk environment in the broader market [7][8] - This decline in the VIX suggests that market participants are currently less concerned about potential short-term volatility in the S&P 500 [7]