Powell, chairman of the Federal Reserve, said at a press conference after the interest rate resolution that the Delta strain would have an impact on public health, but that the recent outbreak had less impact on the economy. A new wave of Delta strains could put pressure on the labour market again and is being carefully monitored.

Powell said that as long as the COVID-19 epidemic is not over, no one can guarantee safety.

The Fed left the target range of the federal funds rate unchanged at 0-0.25% on Wednesday and said the economy was making progress towards meeting the conditions for underweight bond purchases.