Iran Says No Meeting Planned With US | Balance of Power 04/24/2026

Summary

The episode covers the DOJ dropping its investigation into Fed Chair Powell, potentially clearing the path for Kevin Warsh's confirmation, and the ongoing Iran standoff with talks uncertain. Markets have rallied to record highs despite geopolitical tensions, with chip stocks leading. Political analysis includes prediction markets and the White House Correspondents' Dinner.

• DOJ ends criminal probe into Fed Chair Jerome Powell, shifting review to the Fed Inspector General.
• Republican and Democratic lawmakers react to the probe's closure and implications for Fed independence.
• Iran denies scheduling a meeting with the US in Islamabad even as the White House sends envoys.
• Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, with the US sending a second carrier strike group.
• Stocks hit fresh record highs, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq recovering above pre-war levels.
• Oil prices remain elevated but in a tight range; Congressman French Hill warns prices may underestimate disruption risk.
• Consumer sentiment fell to a record low in April (49.8), the lowest since 1978.
• President Trump will attend the White House Correspondents' Dinner for the first time as president.