US Senators have confirmed Janet Yellen’s appointment as the chairwoman of the United States Federal Reserve.

Dr Yellen will be the first woman to lead the world’s most powerful central bank in its 100-year history.

She will assume the role on February 1, after Ben Bernanke’s eight-year term comes to an end.

A total of 56 senators voted to back the nomination, while there were 26 votes against.

Dr Yellen’s confirmation was widely expected.