Federal Reserve Issues FOMC Statement

Why It Matters

Keeping rates unchanged signals the Fed’s cautious stance amid mixed labor data and lingering inflation, influencing borrowing costs and market expectations for future policy moves.

Key Takeaways

• Fed keeps rates at 3.5‑3.75% range
• Job growth remains low, unemployment stabilizing
• Inflation stays above 2% target
• Some members voted to cut rates
• Outlook uncertainty remains high

Pulse Analysis

The Fed’s decision to hold the policy rate reflects a delicate balance between sustaining growth and taming inflation. While the economy shows solid activity, the labor market’s tepid job gains and a modestly elevated price environment suggest that the central bank is not yet confident enough to tighten further. By anchoring the rate at 3.5‑3.75 percent, the Committee signals that monetary policy will remain data‑dependent, giving markets a clear cue that any future adjustments will hinge on incoming employment and price metrics.

Investors and corporations are closely watching the dissenting votes, especially Christopher J. Waller’s push for a quarter‑point cut. His stance underscores a growing faction within the Fed that perceives inflationary pressures as receding enough to allow a modest easing. If the dissent gains traction, it could accelerate a shift toward lower rates later in the year, potentially boosting equity valuations and reducing borrowing costs for businesses. Conversely, the majority’s vote to maintain rates reinforces a cautious outlook, keeping bond yields relatively stable and preserving the current cost of capital.

Looking ahead, the Fed’s emphasis on “uncertainty” and “risk balance” suggests that upcoming data releases—particularly on wage growth, consumer spending, and global financial conditions—will be pivotal. Should inflation trends move closer to the 2 percent target without a surge in unemployment, the Committee may feel justified in a gradual rate reduction. However, any resurgence of price pressures or external shocks could prompt a return to a more hawkish posture. Stakeholders should therefore monitor the Fed’s language for subtle shifts, as even minor tone changes can reshape market expectations and strategic planning across sectors.

Federal Reserve issues FOMC statement

January 28, 2026

Available indicators suggest that economic activity has been expanding at a solid pace. Job gains have remained low, and the unemployment rate has shown some signs of stabilization. Inflation remains somewhat elevated.

The Committee seeks to achieve maximum employment and inflation at the rate of 2 percent over the longer run. Uncertainty about the economic outlook remains elevated. The Committee is attentive to the risks to both sides of its dual mandate.

In support of its goals, the Committee decided to maintain the target range for the federal funds rate at 3‑½ to 3‑¾ percent. In considering the extent and timing of additional adjustments to the target range for the federal funds rate, the Committee will carefully assess incoming data, the evolving outlook, and the balance of risks. The Committee is strongly committed to supporting maximum employment and returning inflation to its 2 percent objective.

In assessing the appropriate stance of monetary policy, the Committee will continue to monitor the implications of incoming information for the economic outlook. The Committee would be prepared to adjust the stance of monetary policy as appropriate if risks emerge that could impede the attainment of the Committee's goals. The Committee's assessments will take into account a wide range of information, including readings on labor market conditions, inflation pressures and inflation expectations, and financial and international developments.

Voting for the monetary policy action were:

• Jerome H. Powell, Chair

• John C. Williams, Vice Chair

• Michael S. Barr

• Michelle W. Bowman

• Lisa D. Cook

• Beth M. Hammack

• Philip N. Jefferson

• Neel Kashkari

• Lorie K. Logan

• Anna Paulson

Voting against this action were:

• Stephen I. Miran

• Christopher J. Waller, who preferred to lower the target range for the federal funds rate by ¼ percentage point at this meeting.

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Implementation Note issued January 28, 2026

Last Update: January 28, 2026