Fed Decision Looms: Powell’s Final Speech and Market Impact

The Federal Reserve is set to announce its April 29 policy decision, and markets already expect no change in interest rates. Traders are fully pricing in a hold at 3.50%–3.75%, with near certainty that policymakers will keep rates steady. Attention is now on Jerome Powell, whose comments will shape expectations on whether rate cuts come later or policy stays tight for longer.

The meeting carries added importance because Powell is nearing the end of his term as chair. His guidance will help markets understand how long current conditions may last. Investors across global markets, including crypto, are watching for direction in his tone rather than the decision itself. Stable rates are already expected, but any hint of tighter policy could quickly shift pricing across risk assets.