The Federal Reserve maintained its interest rate at 3.50%-3.75%, citing increased geopolitical risks and rising oil prices, while raising its 2026 inflation expectations to 2.7%. This decision, combined with the previous dot plot projection showing only one potential rate cut in 2026, has put pressure on risk assets, with Bitcoin declining nearly 4% to around 71,600 USD, and major US stock indices also experiencing declines. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell noted that the economic impact of Middle East tensions remains unclear, emphasizing that future policy will adopt a data-driven approach.