The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) is set to convene this week to assess economic conditions and potentially adjust the federal funds rate. Below are key details about the meeting schedule, agenda, and expected outcomes.
**When is the next Fed meeting?** The upcoming FOMC meeting is scheduled for December 9–10, 2025, marking the eighth and final regular session of the year.
Following the meeting, the FOMC will release its policy decision at 2:00 PM Eastern Time, followed by a press conference with Fed Chair Jerome Powell at 2:30 PM.
Powell’s press conference will be livestreamed and archived. Additionally, meeting minutes will be published three weeks after the policy announcement.
Tracking the Fed’s monetary policy discussions and outcomes can help individuals make more informed financial decisions by staying attuned to economic trends.
**What to expect from the next Fed meeting?**
Markets anticipate the Fed will implement its third rate cut of the year, with the
After lowering the benchmark rate by 25 basis points in its previous meeting, the Fed stated: “Recent indicators suggest economic activity is expanding at a moderate pace. Job gains have slowed this year, and while the unemployment rate has edged up, it remains low as of August. Inflation has risen since the start of the year but remains slightly elevated.”
Despite these signals, the exact timing and magnitude of rate cuts remain uncertain. However, proactive financial planning is advisable.
**How to prepare ahead of the Fed meeting (and potential rate cuts)?**
1. **Lock in high rates now**: Certificates of deposit (CDs) currently offer attractive fixed rates, with some exceeding 4%. Securing a CD before potential rate cuts can safeguard returns. However, choose a term that aligns with your savings horizon—longer lock-ups may incur penalties for early withdrawals, and future rate hikes could leave you with lower yields.
2. **Consider refinancing early**: If you hold fixed-rate loans (e.g., auto loans, private student loans, mortgages), refinancing could reduce costs. Waiting for further rate cuts may be prudent, but improving your credit score or paying down debt in the interim can help secure better terms.
3. **Time major purchases strategically**: For big-ticket items like homes or cars, monitor rate trends. If financing is needed, delaying purchases until rates drop could be beneficial. Meanwhile, build savings in dedicated funds to increase down payments and minimize loan amounts.