The benchmark Federal Funds Rate, which controls the cost of short-term borrowing like credit cards and auto loans, currently is 3.75% to 4%. The FOMC held the rate steady for most of the year. This “wait-and-see” approach was driven by caution over tariff inflation and trade policy.

Investors brace for the Fed's rate cut, but markets worry about the uncertain path and potential economic ripple effects that follow.

Wall Street awaits a crucial Federal Reserve policy decision, with investors anticipating an interest rate cut amid fears of hawkish commentary. Uncertain economic data and leadership challenges at the Fed heighten anxiety.

The Federal Reserve will announce its interest-rate decision today at 2 p.m. Fed Chair Powell will speak shortly thereafter. Follow along for live updates on the Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq and other markets.

White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett, the frontrunner to be the Fed’s next chair, told the WSJ CEO Council on Tuesday there is "plenty of room" to cut interest rates further, though he added that if inflation rises the calculation may change.

The Bitcoin price climbed 2% ahead of an expected Fed interest rate cut this week, and as a possible Japan rate hike looms.

The Fed cut rates again, but uncertainty over incoming leadership and delayed economic data is complicating the outlook for future monetary policy.