17 September 2025 | 2:44PM EDT USA: FOMC Lowers Fed Funds Rate 25bp; SEP Median Projects Three Cuts for 2025, One Each in 2026 and 2027 BOTTOM LINE: The FOMC lowered the target range for the fed funds rate by 25bp to 4-4.25% at its September meeting. The post-meeting statement noted that "downside risks to employment have risen" even as inflation "has moved up." The Committee removed a previous reference to "the extent and timing" of additional fed funds rate cuts in the forward guidance portion of the stat ...

Core Viewpoint - The Federal Reserve is expected to maintain the federal funds rate target range at 4.25%-4.50% during the June meeting, marking the fourth consecutive time it has held rates steady. However, uncertainties regarding the policy path for the second half of the year are significant, making the upcoming "dot plot" and economic outlook from the Fed crucial for market reactions [1][4][5]. Interest Rate Projections - Market expectations indicate that the Fed may lower rates twice in 2025, with a potential first cut in September or October [1][2]. - The "dot plot" is anticipated to be more significant than the decision itself, with analysts focusing on whether it will signal only one rate cut instead of two for 2025 [1][8]. Economic Forecast Adjustments - Analysts predict that the Fed will lower its GDP growth forecast for 2025 to 0.9%, down from 1.7% previously, while raising the core PCE inflation forecast to 3.3% from 2.8% [7]. - The unemployment rate forecast is also expected to rise to 4.5%, compared to the previous estimate of 4.4% [7]. Inflation and Economic Data - Recent geopolitical tensions have increased oil prices, potentially impacting inflation expectations, but analysts believe this will have limited effect on the Fed's June meeting [4]. - The core PCE inflation rate, which has decreased from a peak of 5.6% in 2022 to 2.5%, is projected to rebound to 3.4% by year-end [5]. Market Reactions and Predictions - If the "dot plot" indicates only one rate cut, it may lead to significant market volatility, potentially strengthening the dollar and putting pressure on gold and other assets [10][11]. - The market has largely ignored the resilience of U.S. economic data, focusing instead on potential downside risks, which may affect the dollar's performance in the context of global "de-dollarization" [11].