Loading prices…
🩸BEARISH

Fed Holds Rates Steady as December Hike Remains in View

Markets had already priced out a move at this meeting, but persistent inflation keeps the next decision in focus.

Fed Holds Rates Steady as December Hike Remains in View
Fed Holds Rates Steady as December Hike Remains in View
Fed Holds Rates Steady as December Hike Remains in View
Fed Holds Rates Steady as December Hike Remains in View

The Federal Reserve kept its benchmark interest rate range at 3.75%-4.0%, as markets expected, while signaling continued concern about inflation above its 2% target. Markets had priced out a hike at this meeting but fully priced in one at the next meeting in early December.

Why it matters

The pause does not mark a shift away from fighting inflation. September inflation reports remained troubling, while Fed speakers had indicated they were comfortable with a slower pace of monetary tightening.

Market impact

With a December hike fully priced in by markets, the next decision is a key test of whether inflation pressures keep policy on a tighter path. Fed Chair Kevin Warsh's post-meeting press conference was scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. ET.

Frequently asked questions

  1. What interest rate range did the Federal Reserve maintain?

    The Fed kept its benchmark interest rate range at 3.75%-4.0%.

  2. Why did markets expect the Fed to hold rates steady?

    Fed speakers had indicated they were comfortable with a slower pace of monetary tightening, and markets had priced out a hike at this meeting.

  3. What are markets expecting at the Fed's next meeting?

    Markets fully priced in a rate hike at the next meeting in early December.

  4. How does inflation compare with the Fed's target?

    Inflation remains well above the Fed's 2% target. September inflation reports were described as troubling.

  5. When was Fed Chair Kevin Warsh's press conference scheduled?

    Warsh's post-meeting press conference was scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. ET.

Source attribution
Aggregated from CoinDesk · Verified · Last refreshed 1h ago
Open original →