If you’ve been following the news lately, you’ve probably seen headlines like “Fed set to cut rates” or “Markets price in Fed move.” In the U.S., what the Federal Reserve does is a big deal — it influences mortgage rates, credit card interest, investment returns, and even your paycheck’s purchasing power. So the question many are asking: When is the next Fed meeting?
In this post, we’ll break down the schedule, explain why Americans should care, analyze what could happen next, and answer the key questions you’re searching for. (Spoiler: the next meeting is not far off.)
Why Fed Meetings Matter
What Is the Fed and the FOMC?
The Federal Reserve (the “Fed”) is the U.S. central bank. Its job is to balance between maximum employment and low inflation. One of its core tools is influencing short-term interest rates through the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) — the body that makes those decisions.
The FOMC meets about eight times a year, roughly every six to eight weeks. At each regular meeting, it reviews economic data, adjusts policy if needed, and issues a statement. The Fed Chair typically holds a press conference afterward to explain the decision.
Recent Moves & Where We Stand Now
At its September 16–17, 2025 meeting, the Fed cut interest rates by 25 basis points (0.25 %) to bring the federal funds target range down to 4.00 %–4.25 %. That was the first rate cut of 2025.
From here, the Fed will closely watch economic data — especially on inflation, job growth, and wage trends — before deciding its next moves.
When’s the Next Fed Meeting — and What to Expect
Dates & Schedule
After the September meeting, the next scheduled FOMC meeting is October 28–29, 2025.
Meetings typically last two days, with a policy decision announced on the second day at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time and a press conference at 2:30 p.m. ET. All meeting dates are tentative until confirmed at the preceding FOMC session.
What to Watch: Key Themes & Risks
Rate Cuts vs. Caution
Markets are betting heavily on another 25-basis-point cut in October. Some analysts even see a second cut later in the year.
But rate cuts aren’t guaranteed — particularly if inflation shows signs of reviving or data comes in stronger than expected. The Fed’s approach remains data-dependent.
The Data Disruption Factor
A complicating factor right now is the ongoing government shutdown, which has delayed key economic reports such as monthly jobs data. Without those official releases, Fed officials may rely more on private-sector indicators — increasing uncertainty and volatility.
Market & Consumer Impacts
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Mortgage & Borrowing Costs: Every Fed cut tends to push down rates on adjustable loans and ease pressure on debt servicing.
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Stock & Bond Markets: Cuts are often welcomed by equities, but investors will be closely watching Powell’s tone on future moves.
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Savers & Fixed-Income Investors: Rate cuts reduce returns for savers in money markets or short-term bonds.
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Inflation & Wage Pressure: The Fed must balance supporting growth and jobs with not reigniting inflation.
A case in point: equities rallied on anticipation of cuts after the September meeting, but fears over inflation and economic resilience kept markets jittery.
Why U.S. Readers Should Care
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Your Wallet Feels It — Whether you have a mortgage, student loan, or credit card, Fed moves filter down to everyday borrowing costs.
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Investment Returns — Stocks, bonds, and even your retirement portfolio respond to central bank signals.
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Economic Stability — The Fed is one of the biggest players setting the tone for U.S. economic cycles.
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Global Influence — U.S. policy is watched worldwide; it affects trade, currency flows, and emerging markets.
FAQs
When is the next Fed meeting in 2025?
The next scheduled meeting is October 28–29, 2025, pending confirmation.
What time does the Fed announce its decision?
On the second day of the meeting, the policy decision is released at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time, followed by a press conference at 2:30 p.m. ET.
Will the Fed cut rates in October?
Markets generally expect a 25-basis-point cut, though it’s not assured. The final call depends heavily on upcoming inflation and labor data.
How often does the Fed meet?
The FOMC meets eight times a year, about every six to eight weeks.
What’s the current federal funds rate?
Following the September 2025 meeting, the target range is 4.00 % to 4.25 %.
What You Can Do
The next Fed meeting — October 28–29, 2025 — is shaping up to be a pivotal moment. Will the Fed choose to ease again and help support growth? Or will it hold steady, waiting for more clarity on inflation and jobs? Either way, the ripple effects will be real for borrowers, investors, and everyday Americans alike.
What to do now:
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Watch upcoming data on jobs, wages, and inflation.
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Review your borrowing — if you have variable-rate debt, consider locking in terms soon.
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Pay attention to Powell’s press conference — his tone on future moves often matters more than the cut itself.
If you’d like a deeper dive into how these meetings impact mortgages, stocks, or consumer credit, stay tuned for our next update.