冲突再升级！美联储主席鲍威尔遭调查，特朗普祭出“房贷QE”、设信用卡上限

Core Viewpoint - The independence of the Federal Reserve is under renewed scrutiny due to a criminal investigation into Chairman Jerome Powell, which has escalated tensions between President Trump and Powell, raising concerns about political interference in monetary policy [1][3]. Group 1: Investigation and Political Pressure - The investigation into Powell includes analyzing his public statements and reviewing expenditure records, approved by Trump's ally, prosecutor Jeanine Pirro [3]. - Powell has faced criticism from Trump for refusing to lower interest rates, and Trump has indicated he will soon announce Powell's successor [3]. - Powell claims the investigation is a pretext to exert political pressure on him regarding interest rate decisions, emphasizing the need for the Fed to operate free from political influence [4]. Group 2: Administrative Interventions - Trump has taken steps to directly influence interest rates, including instructing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to purchase $200 billion in mortgage-backed securities, seen as an attempt to lower housing costs ahead of the midterm elections [5]. - Trump's call to set a credit card interest rate cap at 10% for one year is viewed as further administrative intervention in monetary policy [5]. - Goldman Sachs notes that this "quasi-QE" approach, while limited in immediate financial impact, signals a significant shift in policy direction that could disrupt the valuation framework of the MBS market [5]. Group 3: Market Reactions and Implications - Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman criticized Trump's efforts to artificially lower interest rates, warning it could lead to significant negative consequences for consumers and financial institutions [6]. - The potential for increased regulation and reform of the Fed under Trump's influence raises concerns about the central bank's independence, which has historically been protected from political pressures [6]. - The credibility and independence of the Fed are perceived to be at risk, with investors increasingly considering the implications of political interference on monetary policy [6][7].