Producers of metals, grains and other raw materials fell after the Federal Reserve left rates unchanged and hinted there could be fewer rate cuts this year than previously anticipated.

While the "dot plot" forecasts from Fed committee members on rate projections remained largely unchanged, Fed Chair Jerome Powell noted that "take the forecast with a pinch of salt, just subject to so much uncertainty," said Powell.

"The Fed's jump in inflation expectations combined with a steady outlook on GDP growth and unemployment suggests the committee is feeling little pressure to cut rates right now," said Bret Kenwell, U.S. investment analyst at online brokerage eToro.

Write to Rob Curran at rob.curran@dowjones.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

March 18, 2026 17:03 ET (21:03 GMT)

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