Washington Federal, Inc. Price & Performance (WAFDP)

The Federal Reserve has opted to hold benchmark interest rates steady at 4.25%-4.5% but indicated potential rate cuts later this year. Officials downgraded economic growth forecasts to 1.7% for 2025 while projecting higher inflation at 2.8%. The Fed also slowed its quantitative tightening program, reflecting caution in the current economic environment.123

Victory Capital Management increased its holdings in WaFd, Inc., as the stock trades near its 52-week low of $25.78. WaFd recently raised its dividend to $0.27 per share, yielding 3.82%. Analysts have issued mixed ratings, with price targets ranging from $31 to $38, reflecting uncertainty in the financial sector.4

U.S. stock indices have experienced notable declines amid fears surrounding President Trump’s tariff policies. The S&P 500 has entered correction territory, falling over 10% from its peak, while the Nasdaq Composite also tumbled. Investors are wary of potential economic slowdowns as tariffs and geopolitical tensions weigh on sentiment.567