Fed Expected to Hold Rates Steady Due to War, Energy Shock

The Federal Reserve is widely expected to leave interest rates unchanged at Wednesday's meeting (no change to policy rates) due to uncertainty stemming from the Middle East conflict. Chair Jerome Powell will speak publicly for the first time since the US-Israel war with Iran began, a timing that could heighten market sensitivity and volatility around the decision.

Analysis

The Federal Reserve is widely expected to leave interest rates unchanged at Wednesday's meeting (no change to policy rates) due to uncertainty stemming from the Middle East conflict. Chair Jerome Powell will speak publicly for the first time since the US-Israel war with Iran began, a timing that could heighten market sensitivity and volatility around the decision.