Central banks move in step, for now

Central banks move in step, for now

From Marketplace by Marketplace

April 28, 2026 · 25 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the current state of central banks and their interest rate decisions amidst global economic changes.

The U.S. Federal Reserve meets this week — so do central banks in Japan, England, Canada, and the European Union. Most will keep rates unchanged for now, as war in the Middle East shakes up the global status quo. But as other banks weigh imminent rate hikes, the U.S. may move in the opposite direction. More on why in today’s episode. Plus: Consumer sentiment crept up in April, Medicaid cuts slash pediatric care options, and five Big Tech firms post earnings this week. Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter. Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

People in this episode

Host: Marketplace

Topics covered

  • central banks
  • interest rates
  • global economy
  • consumer sentiment
  • Medicaid cuts
  • Big Tech earnings

Keywords

  • central banks
  • interest rates
  • U.S. Federal Reserve
  • consumer sentiment
  • Medicaid cuts
  • Big Tech earnings

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: U.S. Federal Reserve, Japan, England, Canada, European Union

Places: Middle East

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