The financial world is bracing for a seismic political collision as the Federal Reserve chooses stability over pressure from the White House. Federal Reserve Holds Interest Rates Steady Against Executive PressureIn a move widely expected to ignite a political firestorm, the Federal Reserve has left its benchmark interest rates unchanged. Economists suggest this decision is a direct challenge to the White House, which has lobbied for lower rates to stimulate growth. By making American goods cheaper abroad, the White House believes it can reduce the trade deficit, which currently stands at roughly £665,000,000,000 ($800,000,000,000). Ultimately, the standoff between the Federal Reserve and the White House represents a fundamental disagreement on the future of the economy.