<h1>Federal Reserve Keeps Interest Rate Steady at 4.3% Amid Tariff Concerns and Inflation Risks</h1> The Federal Reserve maintained its key short-term interest rate at approximately 4.3 percent for the fifth time this year, despite repeated demands from the President for cuts. The decision reflects concerns about the economic impact of recent import tariffs, which have increased costs for certain goods and contributed to a modest rise in inflation. The vote revealed internal division, with two governors dissenting in favor of lowering rates, marking the first such split among Washington-based governors in over 30 years. The majority, including the Chair, preferred to wait for clearer economic effects of the tariffs before adjusting rates. This decision is likely to intensify tensions between the Federal Reserve and the executive branch, as the President continues to pressure the independent agency to reduce borrowing costs.