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Powell Likely to Maintain Rates Amid Inflation Fears

3/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is expected to keep the federal funds rate at 3.5%–3.75% at the upcoming meeting, with a 98.8% probability of no change.
Investors will watch Powell's press conference and the dot plot for insights on rate paths.
Rising oil prices and Middle East tensions heighten inflation concerns, as economists forecast higher inflation readings that could delay future rate cuts, while the crypto market has declined 0.21%.

History

Historical Context

The Federal Reserve slashed interest rates to near-zero in December 2008 in response to the financial crisis, implementing the $700 billion Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) to stabilize banks. Today, Jerome Powell's anticipated rate hold at 3.5%-3.75% reflects ongoing inflation concerns, influenced by rising oil prices and geopolitical tensions, shaping current monetary policy and investor confidence.

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Story summary

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is expected to keep the federal funds rate at 3.5%–3.75% at the upcoming meeting, with a 98.8% probability of no change.
Investors will watch Powell's press conference and the dot plot for insights on rate paths.
Rising oil prices and Middle East tensions heighten inflation concerns, as economists forecast higher inflation readings that could delay future rate cuts, while the crypto market has declined 0.21%.

1 / 2