The next FOMC meeting is scheduled for December 9–10, 2025, with the Federal Reserve set to release its policy statement at 2:00 p.m. Eastern on December 10. The press conference with Chair Jerome Powell will follow at 2:30 p.m. Eastern. These updates will shape expectations for interest rates, inflation trends, and the economic outlook heading into 2026.
The meeting spans two days, during which Federal Reserve officials review the latest data on employment, inflation, and overall economic growth. The December gathering is particularly important because it includes the Summary of Economic Projections, which provides insight into how policymakers view the path of rates, inflation, and unemployment over the next few years.
Why this meeting matters
Investors, businesses, and consumers are closely watching this meeting because it comes at a critical moment for the U.S. economy. The updated economic projections and the dot plot will offer new signals about where policymakers believe interest rates are headed in 2026. Small shifts in these projections often influence borrowing costs, mortgage rates, and market expectations.
Financial markets typically respond immediately once the statement is released. Any indication that the Fed plans to adjust its rate outlook can move stocks, bonds, the dollar, and commodities. Even subtle wording changes in the policy statement can trigger significant reactions.
What to expect in the statement
The December statement will outline the Federal Reserve’s assessment of economic conditions. It will also highlight what officials believe is necessary to maintain stability while guiding inflation toward the 2% target. The Summary of Economic Projections released at the same time includes:
- GDP growth forecasts
- Unemployment rate projections
- PCE inflation outlook
- Future federal funds rate expectations through the dot plot
These details give the public a clearer understanding of how policymakers view the economy’s progress and challenges ahead.
How this meeting may influence markets
Changes in interest rate expectations often affect several major areas:
- Treasury yields and mortgage rates: These typically shift within minutes of the statement and press conference.
- Stock markets: Signals of rate cuts often boost investor confidence, while caution can cause volatility.
- Currency markets: The value of the U.S. dollar often moves based on how yields respond to the Fed’s guidance.
- Commodities: Oil and gold frequently react to changes in growth and inflation expectations.
Because of this, traders, financial analysts, and everyday consumers with upcoming financing decisions pay close attention to every update from the Federal Reserve.
Key times U.S. audiences should know
- December 10, 2:00 p.m. ET: Policy statement and economic projections
- December 10, 2:30 p.m. ET: Chair Powell’s press conference
These two moments typically drive the most market activity and provide the clearest insight into the Fed’s perspective.
What analysts are watching heading into the meeting
Market analysts are focused on whether policymakers will adjust their outlook for 2026 rate cuts. Many believe the committee could signal fewer cuts than some investors are expecting, depending on how inflation and employment trends have evolved.
Another point to watch is whether policymakers show a stronger consensus on the expected rate path. In recent meetings, some members have supported more cautious easing, and the December projections may reveal whether that divide is narrowing.
What to look for during the press conference
During the press conference, Chair Powell often clarifies the committee’s views and explains how officials interpret recent economic data. Powell’s responses to questions can shift markets even more than the written statement. Viewers typically watch for comments related to:
- Inflation progress
- Labor market cooling or stability
- The timeline for potential rate cuts
- Risks to economic growth
A single comment can influence market expectations for months ahead.
Final overview
The next FOMC meeting will provide important guidance for financial markets, businesses, and households. As the final scheduled meeting of 2025, its projections and messaging will help set the tone for early 2026. With the statement and press conference unfolding on December 10, U.S. readers can expect a day of significant economic insight and market movement driven by the Federal Reserve’s latest outlook.
Share your thoughts or questions in the comments and stay tuned for more updates.