The Federal Reserve is expected to announce a 25-basis-point rate cut, with markets watching Jerome Powell’s press conference for guidance on the pace of monetary easing.
The Federal Reserve will announce its interest rate decision at 2:00 a.m. Beijing time on Thursday, followed by a press conference from Chair Jerome Powell. QCP Asia anticipates a 25 basis point cut to 4.00–4.25%. Markets have priced in six cuts through 2026, while risk assets have rebounded ahead of the meeting. However, cryptocurrencies have lagged behind U.S. equities despite improved liquidity since August, and a hawkish tone from Powell could dampen sentiment.