Global central bankers unite in defense of Fed Chair Jerome Powell

• Central bankers worldwide collectively defended Powell, signaling international concern about the investigation's implications for central bank autonomy
• The criminal investigation relates to matters involving Federal Reserve headquarters renovation
• The Trump administration has reportedly threatened Powell with a criminal indictment, prompting the rare united response from global monetary authorities

Summary: Global Central Bankers Defend Fed Chair Powell Amid Criminal Investigation

Key Development:

Global central bankers issued a unified statement Tuesday defending U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell after a criminal investigation was launched against him. The investigation relates to the Federal Reserve headquarters renovation.

Key Facts:

• Powell released a video message on January 11, 2026, stating that the Trump administration has threatened him with criminal indictment
• The charges are connected to the Federal Reserve headquarters renovation project
• The international central banking community has rallied in support of Powell, issuing a collective defense statement

Market Implications:

This unprecedented development raises significant concerns about Federal Reserve independence, a cornerstone of U.S. monetary policy credibility. The situation could potentially:

• Increase market volatility and uncertainty around Fed policy direction
• Challenge the traditional separation between executive branch and central bank operations
• Impact investor confidence in the stability of U.S. financial institutions
• Create concerns among international financial markets about political interference in monetary policy

Context:

The article appears alongside related trending stories about GOP opposition in Congress and Trump administration policies, suggesting broader political tensions surrounding Federal Reserve leadership. The unified international response from global central bankers underscores the gravity of the situation and concerns about maintaining central bank independence worldwide.

This remains a developing story with potential far-reaching implications for financial markets, monetary policy credibility, and institutional independence.