Core Points - The U.S. government is facing a potential shutdown due to a budget impasse between the two major political parties, with a deadline approaching on October 1 [1][5][6] - The budget process is complicated by the U.S. fiscal year running from October 1 to September 30, leading to annual conflicts over budget approvals [3][5] - The Federal Reserve's operations are not directly affected by a government shutdown, as it operates independently and does not rely on congressional appropriations [10][13] Group 1: Budget Impasse - The Democratic Party is advocating for extended subsidies for the Affordable Care Act, while the Republican Party is focused on budget cuts to healthcare [5] - A vote is scheduled for September 30, and failure to pass the budget will result in a government shutdown starting that evening [6] Group 2: Federal Reserve Operations - The Federal Reserve is set to hold its next meeting on October 28-29, during a potential government shutdown period [8] - Despite a government shutdown, the Federal Reserve staff will continue to work, as it is not a subordinate department of the government [10][13] Group 3: Impact on Economic Data - A government shutdown may delay the release of key economic indicators such as non-farm payroll and CPI data, which are crucial for the Federal Reserve's decision-making [15][16] - The inability to access timely economic data could lead the Federal Reserve to maintain current interest rates instead of proceeding with anticipated cuts [15][17]