David Rubenstein: Fed Chair Powell has brought transparency to the Fed

Watch on YouTube ↗  |  April 29, 2026 at 11:59  |  6:21  |  CNBC
Speakers
David Rubenstein — Financial Executive / Former Government Official
Joe Kernen — Co-Anchor, Squawk Box

Summary

David Rubenstein praises Fed Chair Powell for bringing transparency to the Fed and successfully managing post-COVID inflation without a recession. Host Joe Kernen critiques the Fed's late response to inflation and the negative impact on real wages. The discussion is largely retrospective and does not offer specific investment ideas.

  • David Rubenstein credits Powell for revolutionizing Fed communications with press conferences.
  • Powell faced criticism from President Trump but did not respond publicly.
  • The Fed injected $5 trillion in stimulus, leading to 9% inflation.
  • Powell engineered a soft landing, avoiding a major recession.
  • Joe Kernen argues the Fed delayed rate hikes, causing prolonged inflation.
  • Real wages fell during the Biden administration due to high inflation.
  • The discussion focuses on Powell's legacy rather than current market opportunities.
  • No specific stocks, sectors, or tradable assets were mentioned.
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