Eyes on Bitcoin and Altcoins Turned to FED Chairman Jerome Powell! What Time Will He Speak? What Are the Expectations?

The selling pressure caused by the tariffs announced by President Donald Trump continues to be effective in both global markets and the cryptocurrency market.

At this point, as negative winds continue, a rate cut by the FED is expected for recovery, while today all eyes are on the statements to be made by FED Chairman Jerome Powell.

Powell will speak at 18:25 TRT.

What to Expect?

Following the FED's decision to keep the interest rate steady in the range of %4.25 - %4.5 in March, citing current economic uncertainty, significant statements regarding the economic outlook are expected from Powell in his upcoming speech, along with signals for the next interest rate decision.

Because concerns about inflationary pressure in the country have increased following Trump's announcement of mutual tariffs with 185 countries, including China. Analysts believe that the FED will have a tough job between the inflation-recession dilemma.

At this point, analysts note that the importance of Powell's upcoming speech has increased, and they expect the clues he provides to influence the direction of both the global and cryptocurrency markets.

While the markets expect the FED to make four interest rate cuts in 2025, the probability of an interest rate cut in June is priced at 83%.

Citi analysts stated that the high tariffs are expected to continue for at least the next few months, which will significantly increase inflation, yet they anticipate that the FED will view further easing positively.

Citi analysts expect that "Ultimately, we expect the authorities to show a dovish tendency despite the current tariffs and to make a 125 basis point interest rate cut this year."

What Do FED Officials Think?

According to the statements made by FED officials, FED Vice Chairman Philip Jefferson stated that the FED will act based on progress in inflation and the labor market. Accordingly, the FED may continue the current tight policy for a longer period or relax the policy. Jefferson also added that he expects a moderate softening in the labor market this year.

FED member Lisa Cook stated that the uncertainty regarding tariffs between the US and other countries could lead to a weakening of the economy. Cook noted that the reduction of economic uncertainty in the US and the easing of inflation would facilitate interest rate cuts.