The Federal Reserve Open Market Committee (FOMC) declared a 25 basis point reduction in interest rates on Wednesday, lowering the target Federal Funds rate to 3.75%-4%.
This rate cut was “fully priced in” by investors, who were largely expecting the announcement, as noted by Matt Mena, a market analyst at investment firm 21Shares. Mena also predicted:
“Historically, November has been one of the best-performing months for Bitcoin, with positive returns in 8 of the past 12 years, averaging 46.02%. In general, we maintain a moderately risk-on stance and see a feasible route for Bitcoin to surpass its all-time high before the year concludes.”
Following the FOMC announcement, asset prices largely remained stable or saw slight declines on Wednesday, with Bitcoin (BTC) dropping around 2.4% at the time of reporting, after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s remarks indicated that FOMC members are divided regarding a December rate cut.
Michael Pearce, deputy chief US economist at advisory firm Oxford Economics, commented for Cointelegraph, stating, “The unanticipated hawkish dissent from a regional Fed president underscores that future decisions are becoming increasingly contentious.”
The rising dissent within the FOMC indicates a highly divided Federal Reserve, which could negatively impact crypto prices by limiting liquidity that might otherwise flow into digital and other risk-on assets.
Related: US Bitcoin and Ether ETFs recover as Powell hints at rate cuts
Market participants assess the potential for further rate cuts in 2025
The Federal Reserve commenced its 2025 rate-cutting strategy in September with an initial 25 basis point reduction, which contributed to Bitcoin prices reaching record highs of over $125,000.
According to Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) data, more than 56% of market participants anticipate the Fed will lower interest rates to a target range of 3.5%-3.75% by December.
In September, several major banking institutions, including Bank of America, Citigroup, and Goldman Sachs, predicted at least two rate cuts in 2025.
These anticipated cuts would typically bolster asset prices. However, the overshadowing uncertainty from escalating trade tensions between China and the US may lead to investor hesitation.
Magazine: Crypto traders often mislead themselves with price forecasts: Peter Brandt
