*The Fed's June 17, 2026 Decision: Interest Rates Held Again*

*FOMC Decision:*
1. *Rate stays at 3.50% - 3.75%* → Held for the 3rd consecutive meeting this year
2. *Vote 12-0 unanimous* → All members agreed to hold rates. This is the first meeting under new Chair Kevin Warsh
3. *Reason*: Inflation is still "elevated" above the 2% target. May's PCE rose 4.1% YoY, Core 3.4% YoY. The U.S. economy remains solid + unemployment stable 968d39f0

*What's new from Warsh:*

The FOMC statement was shortened + no old "forward guidance." Warsh was firm: "The Committee will deliver price stability." Meaning the focus is on fighting inflation first. 04ef

*Market impact:*

1. *Rate hike still on the table*: Projections from 9 of 18 Fed officials expect at least one more 0.25% rate hike before the end of 2026. The market now prices in an 85% chance of at least 1 hike this year
2. *BTC and stocks under pressure*: S&P 500 fell 0.4%, Nasdaq -0.4% after the release. DXY rose 0.4% to 98.95
3. *"Higher for longer" confirmed*: The Fed gave no signal of a cut. Even the IMF says the Fed is right to hold rates because inflation remains high.