The U.S. Federal Reserve is again in the spotlight as policymakers convene for the last big policy meeting prior to November. Under the leadership of Fed Chairman Jerome Powell, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) will determine whether or not to leave interest rates as they are or to tinker with them in response to changing economic data. Its choice can affect not only U.S. markets but financial conditions globally.
When & Where: The FOMC Schedule
The two-day session starts on Tuesday, October 28 and ends on Wednesday, October 29. The committee’s decision will be announced at 2:00 p.m. ET, posted at the same time on the official website of the Federal Reserve. This is to be followed by Powell’s press conference, which is still a point of focus for investors, economists and policymakers.
WATCH LIVE TODAY: Press conference with #FOMC Chair Powell at 2:30 p.m. ET: https://t.co/1uJrua5qsHhttps://t.co/FJa6TbkDMt pic.twitter.com/Juz7uQ2eKe
— Federal Reserve (@federalreserve) October 29, 2025
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Powell’s Press Briefing: The True Market Mover
Fed Chairman Jerome Powell will brief the media somewhere near 2:30 p.m. ET, thirty minutes after the official announcement is made. Powell’s tone and words at these briefings over time have become near as important as the policy move itself.
Traders are searching for subtle cues in his words or demeanor that may signal in which direction interest rates could be going next. The event will be broadcast live on federalreserve.gov, the Fed’s channel on YouTube and all of the major financial networks such as CNBC and Bloomberg.
What is the Policy Setting: Inflation, Growth & Uncertainty
This week’s discussion follows the September 17 rate cut of 25 basis points, which lowered the benchmark range to 4.00% – 4.25%. That move came amid modestly cooling inflation, although recent data from the Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed a small uptick to 3%.
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With inflation still hovering above target and uncertainty surrounding government spending and global demand, the October meeting represents a balancing act cooling prices without stifling growth.
What Markets Anticipate
Powell is anticipated to take a guarded but calibrated tone by analysts. Although the central bank will not take a bold step now, the chance of rate reductions in early 2026 may be mentioned during Powell’s speech. Investors will hear attentively about what the Fed perceives about inflation movements, jobs numbers and overall economic strength. Whatever Powell communicates on October 29 at 2:30 p.m. ET, it will probably guide market sentiment as the U.S. economy moves into a pivotal election year.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and economic updates. It is for informational purposes and not financial advice.
