What to Expect from Jerome Powell Speech and FED Interest Rate

As the Federal Reserve prepares for its crucial June FOMC meeting, crypto traders are bracing for potential volatility. With Bitcoin and altcoins highly sensitive to macroeconomic signals, all eyes are on the Fed’s next move — and especially Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s remarks.

What Time Is the FOMC Announcement?

The Federal Reserve will reveal its latest interest rate decision on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:30 p.m. IST).

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

Will the Fed Cut Rates in June?

Most traders believe the Fed won’t cut rates this month, with market odds sitting at around 97.5% in favor of no change. With inflation still running hot and ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the Fed is expected to keep interest rates steady in the 4.25% to 4.50% range. 

While no immediate cuts are on the table, investors will be paying close attention to Powell’s tone for any clues about potential rate cuts later this year.

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 held at 4.33% since January, and the Fed is likely to maintain its current stance.

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.

Bitcoin Price Outlook: What Comes Next?

The rate decision itself might not surprise anyone, but it’s Powell’s speech that could move markets. 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.

 Two potential catalysts for Bitcoin:

1. Geopolitical de-escalation, which could trigger a relief rally and squeeze short positions.
2. A dovish Powell, which could be a bullish spark for Bitcoin, altcoins, and high-beta crypto assets.

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.