US Federal Reserve's FOMC Meeting: Key Details and What to Expect

The US Federal Reserve is preparing for its next Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting, set to take place over two days starting from March 18, 2025. The highly anticipated meeting comes amid market uncertainty caused by US President Donald Trump’s new tariff policy. Investors are closely watching the outcome, as it may influence market movements and economic projections.

When and Where to Watch the March FOMC Meeting

The FOMC meeting will begin on March 18 and conclude on March 19, 2025. The key interest rate decision will be announced on March 19 at 2:00 p.m. ET (12:30 a.m. IST). Alongside the rate decision, the committee’s latest economic projections will also be released.
Following the announcement, Fed Chair Jerome Powell will hold a press conference at 2:30 p.m. ET (1:00 a.m. IST on Thursday). The press conference will be streamed live on the Federal Reserve's official website (www.federalreserve.gov), YouTube channel (youtube.com/federalreserve), and X (formerly Twitter) account (x.com/federalreserve).

What to Expect from the March FOMC Meeting

According to a Reuters report, market expectations suggest that the Fed will maintain the key interest rate within the current range of 4.25%–4.50%. It also added that most economists believe a rate cut in March is unlikely, but a possible reduction could come in May.

Powell’s remarks on key economic indicators such as inflation and employment will be closely analyzed. The market will also look for insights into how the new tariff policy might affect the US economy in both the short and long term. The S&P 500 has recently suffered a steep decline, and financial institutions have lowered their US growth forecasts. Barclays now predicts growth at 0.7% (down from earlier estimates), while Goldman Sachs has revised its projection to 1.7% from 2.4%.The Financial Times quoted E&Y Chief Economist Gregory Daco as saying that it will be tough for Powell to reaffirm that the US economy is in good shape.

Conclusion

With global markets on edge, the FOMC's March decision and Powell's statements will have significant implications for future monetary policy and economic growth. Investors will be looking for clarity on how the Fed plans to navigate the challenges posed by trade disruptions and slowing growth.
 

Source: Moneycontrol