Trump will probably announce the name of the new Fed chief before Christmas, says Bessent

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said President Donald Trump could announce the name of the new Fed chief before Christmas. Bessent is completing a second round of interviews with the five finalists who came through from a list of 11 initial candidates.

Among them are Kevin Hassett, Christopher Waller and Michelle Bowman. The final selection, according to Bessent, will focus on the ability to handle the Federal Reserve's demanding and complex agenda.

Betting platforms Kalshi and Polymarket favor Hassett and Waller so far, with the latter reportedly helped by a successful second interview. In an interview with Fox Business, Waller highlighted his own experience and readiness for the role.

Exactly when Trump will make a decision is not yet clear, but according to Bessent, the president has a "great chance" to announce a name before the holidays.

(reuters, swag)