{"content":"Central Banks Step Into the Spotlight as U.S. Government Shutdown Continues — Powell’s Decision Could Shape Market Sentiment A crucial week lies ahead as the Federal Reserve, European Central Bank (ECB), and Bank of Japan (BOJ) hold key interest rate meetings amid the ongoing U.S. government shutdown, which has limited major economic data releases. According to BlockBeats, the Fed will announce its interest rate decision on Thursday at 02:00 UTC+8, followed by Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s press conference at 02:30 UTC+8. On Friday, Dallas Fed President Logan will speak twice, offering further policy insights. Powell is widely expected to cut rates by 25 basis points, taking a cautious step toward easing, but analysts say he’s unlikely to commit to a longer series of cuts until inflation and labor trends become clearer. Even dovish members like Waller are reportedly hesitant to pre-commit to aggressive easing, reflecting the Fed’s desire to maintain flexibility in an uncertain macro landscape. With trade tensions rising and the shutdown dragging on, the Fed may strike a mildly dovish tone, but a more restrained approach could disappoint markets hoping for a deeper 100 bps cut by year-end. Globally, the ECB and BOJ also face difficult balancing acts, as growth slows while inflation pressures persist. If Powell signals confidence in the economy and a controlled approach to rate cuts, risk assets may face short-term volatility. However, a measured dovish message could boost sentiment in both traditional and crypto markets. This week’s central bank moves — and Powell’s tone — could set the direction for global markets into year-end.","images":[],"tags":[],"tradingPairs":[],"quotearticleid":0}