The Federal Reserve holds its final policy meeting of the year this week, starting on Tuesday, Dec. 9. The interest rate decision is due on Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. ET, followed by Chair Jerome Powell’s press conference.
Futures data from CME Group currently imply about a 90% chance that the Fed will cut its benchmark rate by 0.25 percentage points at this meeting. If that happens, it would be the third rate cut this year.
Along with the decision, the Fed will release its latest Summary of Economic Projections (SEP). This report includes policymakers’ forecasts for economic growth, inflation, and the expected path of interest rates over the next several years.
Back in September, the SEP showed a median projection of three rate cuts in 2025 and only one cut in 2026. Any changes to that 2026 path will be a key focus for markets on Wednesday.
Also Read: Fed to Decide Interest Rates This Week With S&P 500 Close to Its Peak
The vote details will also matter. At the October meeting, two FOMC members dissented, opposing the quarter-point cut. Today’s vote will show whether those divisions are widening or narrowing.
This live blog will be updated throughout the meeting with:
-
The Fed’s statement and projections
-
Powell’s remarks and Q&A highlights
-
Market reaction in stocks, bonds, and the dollar
Stay tuned for real-time updates as the Fed releases new information.
