JP MORGAN CHASE(US:JPM) 华尔街见闻·2025-07-18 10:49Core Viewpoint - The independence of the Federal Reserve is facing unprecedented challenges due to ongoing pressure from Trump on Chairman Powell, leading to a reassessment of the central bank's policy outlook in the market. However, JPMorgan believes there is no need for excessive concern [1][2]. Group 1: Political Pressure on the Federal Reserve - JPMorgan's Ilan Benhamou noted that the Federal Reserve has historically operated under political pressure, not just during Trump's presidency [2]. - The potential dismissal of Powell is less significant than the fact that his term is nearing its end, with increasing dovish sentiment expected to drive the market, particularly in the context of anticipated interest rate cuts [2][6]. Group 2: Market Reactions and Predictions - Trump's drafting of a letter to dismiss Powell initially caused a drop in U.S. stocks and the dollar, but the market quickly reversed after Trump denied the intention to fire Powell [3]. - JPMorgan recommends continuing to buy the S&P 500 and VIX indices, anticipating increased investment in risk assets like cryptocurrencies and AI, while acknowledging that tariffs, inflation, and Fed policy uncertainties will heighten market volatility [3][6]. Group 3: Historical Context and Independence Myth - Benhamou emphasized that the current situation reflects a long-standing issue, citing historical conflicts between past presidents and Fed chairs, such as President Johnson's pressure on Chairman Martin in 1965 [4]. - The notion of the Federal Reserve's independence is described as a "myth," with significant figures from major Wall Street firms advocating for the Fed's operational independence from political influence [5]. Group 4: Legal Implications of Dismissing Powell - The Federal Reserve Act allows for the dismissal of board members, including the chairman, "for cause," with Trump and allies suggesting potential reasons for Powell's dismissal [9]. - If Powell were to be dismissed, he could immediately file for an injunction to restore his position, but if denied, the vice chairman would assume the role [9]. Group 5: Supreme Court's Stance - The Supreme Court previously ruled that Trump could not dismiss Powell without cause, recognizing the Fed as a "uniquely structured quasi-private entity," but left open the possibility for "for cause" dismissals [10]. - Legal experts suggest that even if the court finds a dismissal unlawful, it remains uncertain whether Powell could retain his position due to the court's limitations on providing "equitable relief" [10].