When Does the Fed Meet Next? Looking at the Federal Reserve FOMC Calendar

The Federal Reserve, often called the Fed, plays a central role in shaping the United States economy. One of its most important responsibilities is setting monetary policy, which it does through regular meetings of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC). These meetings are closely watched by investors, economists, and anyone interested in the direction of the economy. 

Understanding when the Fed meets and what happens during these meetings can help you make sense of financial news and anticipate potential changes in interest rates, inflation, and market trends. In this article, we will explore the 2025 FOMC meeting calendar, explain the significance of each meeting, and discuss how the Fed’s decisions can impact your financial life.

What is the FOMC and Why Does It Matter?

The Federal Open Market Committee, or FOMC, is the policy-making body of the Federal Reserve. Its main task is to set the target range for the federal funds rate, which influences borrowing costs throughout the economy. The FOMC consists of 12 members, including the seven members of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors and five of the twelve regional Federal Reserve Bank presidents.

The FOMC meets regularly to review economic conditions, assess risks, and decide whether to adjust interest rates or take other actions to support its dual mandate: maximum employment and stable prices. 

These decisions affect everything from mortgage rates and credit card interest to stock market performance and the value of the dollar. Because of this, FOMC meetings are highly anticipated events, with analysts and market participants closely parsing every word from the Fed for clues about future policy moves.

The 2025 FOMC Meeting Calendar

The FOMC typically meets eight times a year, though additional meetings can be scheduled if needed. For 2025, the meeting dates are as follows:

(*Dates marked with an asterisk often include the release of updated economic projections, known as the Summary of Economic Projections or SEP.)

After each meeting, the FOMC releases a statement summarizing its decisions and outlook. On certain dates, the Fed Chair also holds a press conference to provide additional context. Meeting minutes, which offer more detailed insight into the committee’s discussions, are typically released three weeks after each meeting. Staying aware of these dates can help you anticipate periods of increased market volatility and understand the context behind major financial headlines.

Read Also: Last FED Meeting Summary and Its Impact on Crypto

How Do FOMC Decisions Affect the Economy and Markets?

When the FOMC adjusts the federal funds rate, it sets off a chain reaction throughout the economy. Lowering rates tends to make borrowing cheaper, encouraging spending and investment, which can boost economic growth. Raising rates has the opposite effect, making loans more expensive and slowing down the economy to keep inflation in check.

Beyond interest rates, the FOMC can also influence financial conditions through other tools, such as asset purchases or changes to its balance sheet. The committee’s statements and projections provide valuable guidance for investors, businesses, and policymakers. Even if the Fed does not change rates, its commentary on the economy can move markets, as traders adjust their expectations for future policy.

For everyday consumers, FOMC decisions can impact mortgage rates, car loans, savings account yields, and even job prospects. This is why so many people-beyond just Wall Street professionals-pay close attention to the Fed’s meeting schedule and announcements.

What to Watch For at Each Meeting

Each FOMC meeting follows a familiar pattern, but some are more significant than others. Meetings that include updated economic projections and a press conference from the Fed Chair tend to draw the most attention. These sessions offer deeper insights into the committee’s thinking and its outlook for growth, inflation, and employment.

It is also important to watch for changes in the language of the FOMC statement. Even subtle shifts can signal a change in policy direction. After the meeting, analysts will pore over the minutes for details on the range of views among committee members. Understanding these nuances can help you anticipate how markets might react and what the Fed’s next move could be.

Conclusion

The Federal Reserve’s FOMC meetings are key events that shape the direction of the U.S. economy and financial markets. By keeping track of the 2025 meeting calendar and understanding what happens at each session, you can stay informed about potential changes in interest rates and broader economic trends. Whether you are an investor, a business owner, or simply someone interested in how the economy works, knowing when the Fed meets next-and why those meetings matter-can help you make smarter financial decisions.

FAQ

What is the FOMC?
The FOMC, or Federal Open Market Committee, is the branch of the Federal Reserve responsible for setting monetary policy, including interest rates.

How often does the Fed meet?
The FOMC typically meets eight times a year, with additional meetings possible if economic conditions warrant.

Where can I find the official FOMC calendar?
The official calendar is published on the Federal Reserve’s website: FOMC Meeting Calendars.

Why do FOMC meetings matter to me?
FOMC decisions influence interest rates, inflation, and economic growth, affecting everything from loan rates to job opportunities.

When is the next FOMC meeting?
The next scheduled FOMC meeting is on May 6-7, 2025.