Core Viewpoint - The Federal Reserve is expected to announce a 0.25% interest rate cut, with Hong Kong banks likely to follow suit by reducing the Hong Kong dollar prime rate by 0.125% [1][2] Group 1: Federal Reserve's Interest Rate Decision - The Federal Reserve is anticipated to lower interest rates by 0.25%, as indicators such as the healthy hiring rate and a low layoff rate do not support a more aggressive cut of 0.5% [1] - The market expects the Federal Reserve to implement three rate cuts within the year, with a potential strategy of reducing the prime rate by 0.125% in two separate instances [1] Group 2: Hong Kong Banking Sector Response - Hong Kong banks' prime rates are currently only 0.25% higher than before the 2022 rate hike cycle began, indicating limited room for further reductions if the U.S. rates are cut [1] - East Asia Bank's chief economist suggests that Hong Kong banks may only reduce the prime rate by 0.125% this time, not fully aligning with the U.S. rate cut [2] - If Hong Kong banks do not follow the U.S. rate cut closely, there may be implications for the Hong Kong dollar's exchange rate due to potential narrowing of the interest rate differential [1][2]