While a downtrend has been dominating the Bitcoin (BTC) and cryptocurrency markets for weeks, today all eyes are on the FED’s March interest rate decision.
As is known, the FED made its first interest rate cut in September and made an aggressive start to the discount cycle with a 50 basis point cut decision. The FED also made a 25 basis point rate cut in November and December.
After these interest rate cuts, the FED left interest rates constant in January, the first interest rate decision of 2025.
After January, dollar, gold, stock market and cryptocurrency investors are wondering when the first interest rate cut of 2025 will be made. Because investors will direct their investments after the FED’s decision.
While we await the FED’s March decision, it remains unclear whether the FED will make a surprise.
When Will the March FED Interest Rate Decision Be Announced?
The FED will announce its March interest rate decision on March 19, 2025 at 21:00 Turkish time.
Following the decision, FED Chairman Jerome Powell will make oral statements at 21:30.
In Which Direction Are Expectations Focused?
The general expectation for the FED interest rate decision, which is eagerly awaited by global markets, is that the FED will leave the policy rate unchanged. According to FED Watch, the probability of interest rates remaining unchanged in March is priced in at 99%.
While it is unlikely that the FED will make a surprise at this point, the signals from the policy text and Powell’s statements are expected to have an impact on the direction of the markets.
Powell had said they would be cautious, citing inflation and economic uncertainty as reasons to keep rates steady. However, Powell’s post-meeting comments could shape investor sentiment. If he signals earlier-than-expected easing, risk assets like Bitcoin and altcoins could see a boost. On the other hand, if the hawkish stance continues, selling pressure could increase in the market.
It is almost certain that the first interest rate cut of the year will be made in June.
Gold Broke a Record Before the FED Decision!
Gold continues to rise in markets focused on the FED interest rate decision.
In this period when global risk appetite is low, investors are turning to gold as a safe haven, and the ounce of gold has reached historic levels. The ounce of gold rose to $3,038 in the morning hours, reaching an all-time high.
While increasing geopolitical risks in the Middle East and economic uncertainty created by global trade wars push investors to seek safe havens, experts expect the FED chairman’s statements following the interest rate decision to be decisive in the direction of gold.
*This is not investment advice.
