Global Central Banks Back Fed Chair Powell Amid Economic Tensions

Central bankers from major economies issued rare public support for U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, defending central bank independence as markets remain volatile. China also reported a record $1.2 trillion trade surplus in 2025. Policymakers are navigating contrasting pressures: inflation concerns in some regions and stagnation in others, while geopolitical uncertainty — especially around trade and sanctions — weighs on global growth forecasts.