April 29, 2026, 9:10 PM EDT. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, in his final meeting, kept the Fed funds rate unchanged, emphasizing patience amid the Middle East conflict's uncertainty. Powell highlighted the war in Iran as a factor affecting inflation but cautioned against making premature policy moves. He urged investors to recognize the unpredictability of the conflict's course and impact on energy prices. The stock market's rebound after initial sell-offs linked to the war suggests a need for measured responses rather than abrupt portfolio changes. Powell's approach underlines the importance of long-term investing amidst geopolitical tensions, as markets historically recover from crises, including wars and economic downturns. Investors are advised to monitor but not overreact to volatile wartime developments.