Market concerns about the Federal Reserve's independence have intensified following Kevin Warsh's nomination hearing, according to a CNBC survey. The survey, which included 26 economists, strategists, and analysts, revealed that only 50% believe Warsh can maintain a high degree of policy independence, while 46% view his independence as limited or absent. Despite this, the perception of his independence has improved by 13 percentage points since last month, suggesting his hearing statements have somewhat eased concerns. Regarding policy expectations, 58% of respondents consider Warsh "dovish," favoring rate cuts, but 65% anticipate a "hawkish" approach to balance sheet reduction. Warsh's previous comments on "re-coordinating balance sheet management" between the Treasury and the Fed have raised alarms about potential threats to the fiscal-monetary separation established in 1951. Analysts warn this could undermine the Fed's independence. Additionally, while Warsh advocates for proactive policy planning in response to AI's impact on inflation and productivity, 81% of experts believe the Fed should rely on actual economic data, citing insufficient short-term deflationary effects of AI to justify policy shifts.