Trump Hints at Fed Chair Pick as Kevin Hassett Leads Prediction Markets

U.S. President Donald Trump has fueled speculation about the next Federal Reserve Chair after revealing that he has already begun interviewing candidates and believes he knows who he will choose to replace Jerome Powell when his term ends next year. Speaking during a meeting with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Trump also reiterated his long-standing criticism of Powell, saying he would fire him immediately if he could. Throughout the year, Trump has repeatedly pressured the Fed to cut rates more aggressively, accusing Powell of slowing economic momentum. Despite his criticism, the Federal Open Market Committee has implemented two rate cuts at its September and October meetings.

Prediction markets are now buzzing with potential successors, and crypto traders appear particularly confident in one candidate. Data from Polymarket shows National Economic Adviser Kevin Hassett holding a commanding 47% probability of becoming the next Fed Chair. Other contenders include Fed Governor Christopher Waller at 21%, BlackRock CIO Rick Rieder at 11.6%, and former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh at 11%. These names were reportedly part of a shortlist compiled by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who has been evaluating potential nominees.

Hassett has openly expressed willingness to take the role, citing his five years of experience at the Federal Reserve as preparation for the position. He has also advocated for more aggressive monetary easing, signaling support for a larger rate cut at the Federal Reserve’s December FOMC meeting, although he expects only a 25-basis-point reduction. Still, a December cut remains uncertain as several Fed officials warn against easing policy too quickly amid persistent inflation concerns.

Trump is expected to name a new Fed governor to replace Stephen Miran when his term ends in January, with that nominee likely positioned to take over from Powell once his chairmanship concludes in May 2026. As market speculation intensifies, the possibility of Hassett stepping into one of the most influential economic roles continues to gain momentum.