FOMC Meeting Today [Live] Updates: FED Decision Time Today, Jerome Powell Speech Today

Mainstream adoption of Bitcoin takes a leap in South Africa as payment processor Zapper integrates Lightning support, enabling BTC payments at over 31,000 stores nationwide. The move marks a major milestone for crypto payments, signaling growing real-world utility and strengthening Bitcoin’s role in everyday transactions.

Bitcoin’s volatility continues as price action remains choppy within the cloud. Analysts note that if BTC can hold above $115,800 over the next few days, it could break free from the Kumo, opening room for further upside momentum. Traders are watching closely for confirmation of a breakout.

The U.S. Financial Services Chair said the upcoming Market Structure Bill will position the country as “the most competitive digital asset nation.” He expressed confidence that the legislation will pass by fall, a move seen as highly bullish for the crypto sector, potentially boosting investor confidence and driving regulatory clarity in the industry.

The Federal Reserve is widely expected to begin its easing cycle today with a 25bps cut to 4.00–4.25%, while markets price in six cuts through 2026. Traders will closely watch the SEP and Powell’s press conference for policy guidance. Risk assets have rallied on easing hopes, but a hawkish dot plot or firmer messaging could dent sentiment. Meanwhile, crypto continues to underperform equities despite looser liquidity.

$MYX continues to earn its reputation as a “demon coin,” with sharp and unpredictable swings. Traders warn that what looks like an easy short can quickly flip, as seen with sudden 50% spikes. The current tight range is raising speculation of an accumulation phase, though uncertainty remains high. Many admit it’s easier to spot in hindsight, leaving the next move anyone’s guess.

Bitcoin has rebounded from $108K to above $115K, with nine straight days of outflows from Binance seen as a key catalyst. Analysts suggest the steady withdrawals reflect early positioning ahead of today’s FOMC meeting, where traders brace for heightened volatility and policy signals from the Federal Reserve.

As markets brace for today’s FOMC decision, sentiment is cautiously optimistic, but traders warn of a possible “sell the news” reaction. For crypto, Powell’s speech will be key: a dovish outlook with clear commitment to further rate cuts and economic support could fuel bullish momentum. Conversely, “higher for longer” messaging, inflation worries, or no timeline for future cuts may spark bearish pressure and heightened volatility.

Ahead of today’s FOMC decision, market watchers caution against trading Bitcoin unless you’re a scalper. The first price move is often misleading, and with high anticipation surrounding the Fed’s stance, volatility is expected to skyrocket. Analysts suggest stepping back, avoiding impulsive trades, and waiting for Bitcoin’s price action to settle before making any moves.

Bitcoin traders are on edge ahead of today’s FOMC decision, with markets largely expecting a 25bps rate cut. Analysts warn that either a surprise 50bps cut or no move could spark massive volatility, sending BTC price swinging in both directions. Many advise keeping partial exposure rather than going completely flat as uncertainty dominates the crypto landscape today.

The FOMC meeting concludes today, September 17, 2025, with the policy statement scheduled for release at 2:00 p.m. ET (11:30 p.m. IST). Following this, Fed Chair Jerome Powell will hold a press conference at 2:30 p.m. ET. This marks the end of the two-day session that began on September 16, and markets worldwide are closely watching for any signals on future rate decisions.