Jim Bianco joins CNBC to Preview Today’s FOMC Meeting

Bespoke Commentary — March 18, 2026

CNBC

Jim Bianco joins CNBC to discuss today's FOMC Meeting with Kelly Evans, Steven Wieting, Chief Investment Strategist at CIO Group, and Claudia Sahm, Chief Economist at New Century Advisors.

 

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction and panelist overview.

01:06 – Jim Bianco discusses the possibility of a rate hike, noting that while it may not happen immediately, the next move could be higher.

02:16 – Analysis of the European Central Bank (ECB) and its influence on global rate expectations.

03:00 – Discussion on how “Fed watching” has changed from deciphering words to tallying votes.

03:31 – Review of Consumer Price Index (CPI) data and its impact on the Fed’s decision-making.

04:36 – Claudia Sahm discusses stagflation risks and the “two-sided risks” currently facing the economy.

05:43 – Steven Wieting presents the case for a more accommodative Fed, citing rising unemployment trends.

07:01 – Analysis of the Labor Force Participation Rate and its increase to 62.5% in January.

07:34 – Review of Initial Jobless Claims data through March.

08:19 – Final thoughts on raw materials costs rising and the potential for a “hawkish tilt” from the Fed.