The Federal Reserve is widely expected to hold interest rates steady at 4.25–4.50%, maintaining a cautious "wait-and-see" approach amid persistent inflation risks, trade uncertainty, and Middle East tensions. The central bank’s Summary of Economic Projections (“dot plot”) is likely to show fewer rate cuts in 2025, pushing possible easing to September or later. Chair Powell will emphasize data-driven policy and stress the Fed’s independence during the post-meeting press conference.
