As of August 24, 2026, investors should not assume that Federal Reserve rate cuts are imminent. The Fed’s benchmark rate is currently 3.50%–3.75%, and policymakers are debating whether to hold rates steady or potentially raise them again—not cut them. The Fed kept rates unchanged in July by a 9–3 vote, with three officials preferring a quarter-point increase.
How many Fed rate cuts are coming?
Fed Rate Cut Expectations
