Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is set to speak at a major European Central Bank event in Portugal, just as former President Donald Trump ramps up public criticism of the Fed's policies. The timing puts Powell in the spotlight, balancing international monetary discussions with domestic political pressure.

Editor’s Note: Powell's speech matters because it’s happening against a backdrop of Trump’s vocal pushback against the Fed—a rare public clash between a former president and the traditionally independent central bank. Investors and policymakers will be watching to see if Powell addresses the political heat or stays focused on global economic trends. Either way, it’s a delicate moment for monetary policy and its perceived neutrality.