Story perspectives

Rick Rieder Emerges as Fed Chair Contender Amid Trump Praise

1/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rick Rieder, BlackRock's senior managing director, is emerging as a candidate to replace Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, whose term ends in May.
U.S. President Donald Trump praised Rieder as "very impressive" after their meeting, signaling a narrowing candidate list.
Rieder lacks traditional central banking experience, but his outsider status is viewed positively.
Rieder advocates modest rate cuts to support growth, contrasting with Trump’s criticisms of Powell.

1 of 1

Story summary

Rick Rieder, BlackRock's senior managing director, is emerging as a candidate to replace Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, whose term ends in May.
U.S. President Donald Trump praised Rieder as "very impressive" after their meeting, signaling a narrowing candidate list.
Rieder lacks traditional central banking experience, but his outsider status is viewed positively.
Rieder advocates modest rate cuts to support growth, contrasting with Trump’s criticisms of Powell.