The Ben and Emil Show BAES 135: FED WARS: POWELL STRIKES BACK
Jan 15, 2026
The head of the Fed is pushing back against Trump’s accusations, stirring up intense political dialogue. They also critique the Golden Globes and discuss the backlash over NYC's hastily launched token. Powell’s defense of the Fed's independence ignites a lively debate on how markets react to political noise. In a lighter vein, the hosts poke fun at meme coins and the recent rug pull in NYC. Expect surprising insights into political accountability and an entertaining take on pop culture!
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Use Cash‑Back Cards For Daily Spend
- Use credit cards strategically to maximize everyday cash back, like Chase Freedom Unlimited.
- Emil recommends using a 1.5% card for general spend and stacking bonus categories when available.
Fed Independence Matters
- The Federal Reserve's independence is crucial because it sets interest rates based on economics, not politics.
- Ben Cahn and Emil DeRosa stress that political pressure on the Fed risks runaway inflation and economic harm.
Powell's Direct Video Response
- Jerome Powell released a direct, short video defending the Fed after DOJ subpoenas related to building renovations.
- Ben Cahn admired Powell's plainspoken format and saw it as an effective rebuttal to Trump pressure.
