The Federal Reserve’s early reappointment of its regional bank presidents took markets by surprise and eased concerns the central bank would soon lose its independence as President Donald Trump continues demanding steeper rate cuts.

On Thursday, the Fed announced 11 out its 12 bank presidents were re-upped, except for the Atlanta Fed chief role as Raphael Bostic had announced previously that he’s stepping down.

The presidents’ five-year terms were due to end in February, and prior reappointments have typically come closer to expiration dates as they historically have been routine affairs. But recent suggestions from the Trump administration that new conditions ought to be placed on the presidents raised concerns it was seeking a wider leadership shakeup.

Earlier this month, Treasury Sec

See Full Page