Fed likely to keep rates steady as Trump uncertainty flares

They should be raising rates.

The Fed, like almost all central banks except the BoJ, is an intelligent body

FRB still waiting to see impact of tariffs, naturally they prefer other countries lower their tariffs, rather than US having to raise with reciprocal tariffs. April 2nd = Big Day

Many countries already announcing they will lower their tariffs, which will lower prices for consumers and thus inflationary pressure and increase GDP growth.

Many companies also reshoring to US to avoid tariff issue altogether. Meanwhile, Trump Admin busy trying to reduce Govt. via DOGE, which will act to lower inflation.

Question remains how soon and how many times FRB will cut in 2025, most believe two cuts coming, first in June

US weak retail sales is another sign of US economy falling into recession

US inflation is still HIGH associated with too much cheap USD in circulation

it is making weak retail sales

The US is in danger of falling into Stagflation. Inflation will be increasing due to Trump's tariffs which would typically be fought with raising interest rates. But there is also the potential of falling into a recession due to the slowing economy caused by Trump's tariffs. If this happens, monetary policy become ineffective at fixing both at the same time. Same thing happened in the 70s.

US Homebuilder's Sentiment is also dropping.

Rising gold price is destroying weakening USD. Fed. has to raise the interest rates.