Washington, June 19 -- The US Federal Reserve on Thursday morning (IST) decided to keep its benchmark interest rates unchanged at 4.25-4.50 per cent, maintaining its cautious stance amid evolving economic conditions.

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said the decision to hold rates steady was taken to support the Fed's dual goals of maximum employment and stable inflation.

"In support of our goals, today the Federal Open Market Committee decided to leave our policy interest rate unchanged. We believe that the current stance of monetary policy leaves us well positioned to respond in a timely way to potential economic developments," Powell said while announcing the decision.

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), in its statement...