Closing Bell Closing Bell: 1/12/26
Jan 12, 2026
Richard Fisher, former president of the Dallas Federal Reserve, discusses the implications of a DOJ probe into Jerome Powell, emphasizing threats to Fed independence. Rick Rieder from BlackRock shares a market outlook, calling for thoughtful investing strategies and pinpointing sectors like healthcare tech and energy infrastructure. Eamon Javers provides insight into White House reactions to the probe, while Phil LeBeau reports on record auto sales and high transaction prices, highlighting trends shaping consumer behavior.
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Investigation Shakes Fed Independence
- The DOJ probe into Fed Chair Jerome Powell has shaken market nerves despite little immediate market damage.
- Richard Fisher says the move threatens Fed independence and may backfire politically.
Judge Fed By Data, Not Politics
- Evaluate policy makers by data, not politics, when judging future Fed moves.
- Rick Rieder advises trusting the Fed committee to act on economic inputs, not presidential pressure.
2026: Investors Over Gamblers
- Rick Rieder expects 2026 to be a market for investors, not gamblers, with higher dispersion and volatility.
- He warns against chasing momentum and favors thoughtful, high-probability positioning.