US Fed Meeting Highlights: Powell-led FOMC Keeps Key Rates Unchanged

The Federal Reserve, led by Chair Jerome Powell, has kept key interest rates at 5.25-5.50% for the fifth straight meeting. This move is consistent with market forecasts and comes despite continuing concerns over persistently high inflation.

Expectations for three rate cuts in 2024

Despite holding interest rates constant, the FOMC indicated that it expects three rate decreases in 2024. This decision shows the Fed's commitment to tackling economic difficulties while handling the risks associated with persistent inflation.

 US economic growth outlook upgraded.

In line with its rate decision, the Fed dramatically improved its forecast for US economic growth in 2024, estimating a 2.1% rate. This upward revision from the previous estimate of 1.4% demonstrates the Fed's belief in the US economy's resiliency.

Inflation Forecasts and Monetary Policy

While headline inflation predictions remain constant, the Fed has marginally increased its annual core inflation forecast to 2.6%. Despite these inflationary pressures, the FOMC has stated that it will wait for persistent progress toward its two percent inflation objective before considering any interest rate reductions.

Fed's Caution Amid Economic Uncertainty

Powell and the FOMC have indicated caution about the timing of rate decreases, highlighting the importance of more confidence in inflation trends before making monetary policy adjustments. This cautious approach shows the Fed's determination to maintain stability in the face of economic uncertainty.

Market Reactions to the Fed Decision

Following the Fed's announcement, US markets rallied, with the S&P 500 reaching fresh highs and the Nasdaq 100 climbing by around 1%. Additionally, two-year rates fell, and the dollar index fell somewhat, suggesting investor sentiment in response to the Fed's decision.

The Canadian dollar strengthens on a rate cut forecast.

The Canadian dollar rose versus the US dollar after the Fed's statement, reaching a six-day high. Investors appreciated the Fed's commitment to possible rate decreases, which boosted the loonie's value against the US dollar.

Gold rises on renewed rate cut expectations:

Gold prices rose more than 1% after the Fed announced its intention to lower interest rates in 2024. The promise of reduced interest rates increased demand for the precious metal, causing gold prices to surge amid forecasts of monetary policy easing.

Fed's Forward Guidance

Looking ahead, the Powell-led FOMC will meet again on April 30 and May 1 to discuss future policy choices. Investors and analysts will closely scrutinize Fed announcements for additional insights regarding interest rate trends and the central bank's response to changing economic conditions.


The Powell-led FOMC's decision to keep key interest rates unchanged shows a balanced monetary policy approach in the face of persistent economic headwinds. While foreshadowing probable rate decreases in 2024, the Fed remains cautious, emphasizing the importance of maintaining progress toward its inflation target before enacting additional policy adjustments.

-Nithika