Khadija Saeed

January 25, 2026, 1:59 PM EST. The Federal Reserve is expected to hold interest rates steady, with a 96% chance priced in by CME's FedWatch. Fed Chair Jerome Powell's post-meeting press conference is now the pivotal moment for markets, as traders seek clues on the future path, especially given recent political pressures and inflation signals. Powell's tone could sway risk assets significantly; a hawkish pause might dampen rate-cut bets and pressure stocks and crypto, while a dovish hint could revive rate cut expectations, boosting markets like bitcoin. Watch for potential dissenters like Stephen Miran advocating larger cuts, which could strengthen easing prospects. Overall, the Fed decision alone is seen as a non-event, but Powell's comments are the real wildcard.