FOMC Explained: Fed Schedule & Market Impact
The Federal Open Market Committee sets the federal funds rate and publishes a policy statement after each meeting. Minutes arrive three weeks later. In 2026, Chair Kevin Warsh's guidance framework makes every communication a repricing event.
Next release
FOMC Meeting Minutes (June 16-17, 2026 -- Chair Warsh's first meeting)
Wednesday, 8 July 2026 · 18:00 UTC
View on calendar →What it is
Eight scheduled FOMC meetings per year (sometimes more in crises). Each produces a rate decision, statement, SEP/dot plot on quarterly cycles, and a chair press conference. Minutes document the internal debate.
Why traders care
Rate expectations flow through the entire risk complex: USD, Treasury yields, gold (via real yields), crypto beta, and equity multiples. Even hold meetings move markets when the statement or press conference shifts the cutting/hiking bias.
Release schedule
Statement typically 18:00 UTC on decision day (14:00 ET DST); minutes three weeks later.
Typical time: 18:00 UTC statement; 18:30 UTC press conference (DST)
Assets most affected
Full trading playbook:
Read the FOMC guide →