Uncertainty looms that Powell -- long thought to be heading for reappointment -- will win another four years when his current term ends in February.
Overall inflation hit 6.2% in October, the highest level of price hikes in 31 years. Indication rising prices are becoming a permanent feature.
The co-owner of a California-based solar company was sentenced to 30 years in prison for running a $1 billion Ponzi scheme.
Summers said global financial markets appear to be anticipating slow growth and low real interest rates for the next few years.