Barkin: Inflation remains Fed’s top risk, gradual policy approach favored

Richmond Fed President Thomas Barkin said inflation remains the central bank’s top risk and endorsed a gradual approach to policy, signaling that rate cuts are unlikely to arrive quickly. The remarks point to a higher-for-longer stance that could keep borrowing costs elevated and weigh on risk appetite across crypto and equities. Traders will watch upcoming inflation prints and Fed communications for confirmation of the pace and timing of any easing.