Jerome Powell’s Speech: Will He Make Crypto Traders Jump for Joy or Scream?

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As the Federal Reserve gears up for its oh-so-important June FOMC meeting, crypto traders are clutching their pearls and bracing for a wild ride! With Bitcoin and its cheeky altcoin friends being as sensitive as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs, all eyes are glued to the Fed’s next move — and especially to the grand maestro himself, Fed Chair Jerome Powell!

What Time Is the FOMC Announcement?

Mark your calendars, folks! The Federal Reserve will unveil its latest interest rate decision on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:30 p.m. IST). Don’t be late, or you might miss the show!

The FOMC meeting schedule is as follows:

  • 2:00 PM ET – FOMC Interest Rate Decision
  • 2:00 PM ET – FOMC Statement
  • 2:00 PM ET – FOMC Dot Plot Release
  • 2:30 PM ET (Midnight IST) – Powell’s Press Conference (bring popcorn!)

Will the Fed Cut Rates in June?

Most traders are convinced the Fed won’t be cutting rates this month, with market odds sitting at a whopping 97.5% in favor of no change. With inflation hotter than a jalapeño in July and ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the Fed is expected to keep interest rates steady in the cozy range of 4.25% to 4.50%. 🥵

While immediate cuts are off the table, investors will be hanging on Powell’s every word for any hints about potential rate cuts later this year. It’s like waiting for a magician to pull a rabbit out of a hat!

Fed Interest Rate Chart (as of June 2025)

The Federal Reserve is expected to keep interest rates steady at 4.25%–4.50% during the June 18, 2025 FOMC meeting. The effective federal funds rate has been lounging at 4.33% since January, and the Fed is likely to maintain its current stance. Yawn!

While futures markets suggest about a 60% chance of a rate cut in September, the upcoming meeting is expected to signal patience. Additionally, the Fed’s updated projections may indicate fewer rate cuts for 2025, reflecting ongoing economic uncertainty. Because who doesn’t love a little uncertainty, right?

MonthFed Funds Rate (%)
Jan 20254.33
Feb 20254.33
Mar 20254.33
Apr 20254.33
May 20254.33
Jun 2025*4.50 (target range upper)

Bitcoin Price Outlook: What Comes Next?

The rate decision itself might not surprise anyone, but it’s Powell’s speech that could send markets into a tizzy! If he shows concern about slowing economic growth or even hints at possible rate cuts or a return to quantitative easing (QE), it could spark a broad rally across financial markets. Cue the confetti! 🎉

Two potential catalysts for Bitcoin:

  1. Geopolitical de-escalation, which could trigger a relief rally and squeeze those pesky short positions.
  2. A dovish Powell, which could be a bullish spark for Bitcoin, altcoins, and high-beta crypto assets. Let the good times roll! 🎈

Currently, Bitcoin’s funding rates are negative, suggesting that bears are over-leveraged. If sentiment flips — especially after Powell’s press conference — that could trigger a short squeeze, fueling a strong surge in the crypto market. Hold onto your hats, folks!

What is a FOMC Meeting?

The FOMC (Federal Open Market Committee) meeting is when the Fed’s main policy group sets U.S. monetary policy, including interest rates. It’s like a big, important tea party where everyone discusses money!

Will the Fed cut interest rates at the June 18 meeting?

Markets overwhelmingly expect no change — CME FedWatch data puts the odds of a hold at ~99.9%, with just a 0.1% chance of a cut. So, don’t hold your breath!

What’s the current federal funds rate?

The Fed has held the target range at 4.25–4.50% since January, with the effective federal funds rate around ~4.33%, and no change expected for June. It’s as stable as a three-legged chair!

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2025-06-17 12:10