Kevin Hassett Leads the Field, but New Shortlist Signals a Competitive Final Round
President Donald Trump is preparing to begin interviews this week with the finalists for the next U.S. Federal Reserve chair, marking the final stage of a closely watched selection process. According to new reporting, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has presented a short list of four candidates to the White House as deliberations intensify.
The list includes former Fed governor Kevin Warsh, who is scheduled to meet with Bessent on Wednesday, and Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council and widely viewed as the frontrunner for the role. Two additional candidates are expected to be chosen from a broader pool that features Fed governors Christopher Waller, Michelle Bowman, and BlackRock executive Rick Rieder.
Trump indicated on Tuesday that he already has a strong preference, stating, “I have a pretty good idea of who I want.” Interviews are expected to continue into next week, with an official announcement likely in January.
Recent prediction market activity underscores the shifting dynamics. Hassett’s odds surged to 85% earlier this month following Trump’s public reference to him as a “potential Fed chair,” but those odds have since slipped to around 73%. Warsh currently stands near 13%, a level that has held throughout December.
The selection of the next Fed chair carries significant implications for financial markets, including digital assets, as investors assess how new leadership may navigate interest rates, inflationn and economic policy. Hassett has emphasized that he would operate independently, stating that the Fed must avoid rate cuts if inflation climbs, stressing that “you just do the right thing,” regardless of political pressure.
With interviews imminent, the final choice is poised to shape U.S. monetary policy—and market sentiment—for years to come.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.