US Fed holds interest rates steady for third straight meeting

Washington, United States: A divided US Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged for a third straight meeting Wednesday on high uncertainty from the Middle East war, in what was likely its last policy gathering helmed by Jerome Powell.

"Inflation is elevated, in part reflecting the recent increase in global energy prices," the central bank said as it held rates at a range between 3.50 percent and 3.75 percent.

But four out of 12 voting officials opposed the decision, with three policymakers supporting the pause but showing no inclination towards lowering interest rates down the line.