Divided Fed holds key interest rate steady, defying Trump's demands for aggressive cuts

Monetary Policy - The Federal Reserve maintained the interest rate range at 425 to 450 basis points [1] - Two governors dissented, favoring a 25 basis point rate cut [1] - Nine votes supported holding rates steady [2] Economic Outlook - Economic growth moderated in the first half of the year [3] - Uncertainty about the economic outlook remains elevated [3][4] - Inflation remains somewhat elevated [4] - The labor market is solid with low unemployment [4] Forward Guidance - The statement does not hint at an imminent rate cut in September [5] - The committee is attentive to risks on both sides of the mandate [4] - Swings in exports continue to affect the data [2]