Powell and Trump speeches are the highlight of this Friday, August 22, as both events carry heavy weight for financial markets and may drive strong volatility in Bitcoin and other risk assets. Investors are on alert, with caution being the main strategy of the day.
Powell at Jackson Hole
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell will deliver his final speech at the Jackson Hole Economic Symposium at 10:00 AM ET (3:00 PM Lisbon).
The theme, “Economic Outlook and Framework Review”, is expected to cover the Fed’s stance on inflation, interest rates, and the possibility of a rate cut in September.
Markets currently price in a 70–75% probability of a 25 basis point cut, although Fed hawks have warned against moving too quickly given sticky inflation.
This speech is highly symbolic as it marks Powell’s last Jackson Hole appearance as Fed Chair, under growing political pressure from President Trump to ease policy.
Trump’s Oval Office announcement
President Donald Trump will hold an official announcement from the Oval Office later today. While the exact time has not been confirmed, White House sources indicate it will take place around midday Washington time.
Topics expected to feature include:
- Expansion of federal presence in Washington D.C., with National Guard and law enforcement measures.
- Urban and park reform projects, where Trump recently made remarks about “knowing more about grass than any human.”
- Updates on immigration policy and national security, as his administration reviews millions of visas and border control measures.
Market implications
Both events arrive at a delicate moment:
- Powell’s speech may directly influence interest rate expectations, Treasuries, and the US dollar.
- Trump’s remarks could have broader political and institutional consequences, shaping perceptions of domestic policy stability.
For Bitcoin traders, volatility is almost certain. As the saying goes: avoid trading the news. Position on dips, secure profits on rallies, and let fundamentals guide decisions rather than emotional reactions.
Sources:
- The Guardian – Fed chair Powell to give high-stakes speech at Jackson Hole
- Washington Post – Powell’s last Jackson Hole speech could chart Fed’s next move
- Reuters – Morning Bid: Treasuries tighten as Fed hawks re-emerge
- Washington Post – Trump expands federal takeover in Washington D.C.
- The Independent – Trump’s unusual remarks on Washington park reforms
- The Guardian – Trump administration daily updates
