FOMC: Median forecast of Fed policymakers is for a total of four rate hikes in 2018

Below is the key takeaways from the FOMC's updated economic projections.

• Median view of appropriate federal funds rate at end-2018 2.375 pct (prev 2.125 pct); end-2019 3.125 (prev 2.875 pct): end-2020 3.375 (prev 3.375 pct) longer-run 2.875 pct (prev 2.875 pct).
• Median forecast of fed policymakers is for a total of four rate hikes in 2018.
• Fed sees slightly higher 2018 GDP growth, lower unemployment in 2018-2020, higher inflation in 2018-19 vs previous forecast.
• Median Fed long-run forecasts - GDP growth 1.8 pct (prev 1.8 pct); jobless rate 4.5 pct (prev 4.5 pct); PCE price index 2.0 (prev 2.0 pct).

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About the FOMC statement 

Following the Fed's rate decision, the FOMC releases its statement regarding monetary policy. The statement may influence the volatility of USD and determine a short-term positive or negative trend. A hawkish view is considered as positive, or bullish for the USD, whereas a dovish view is considered as negative, or bearish.

About FOMC economic projections 

This report, released by Federal Reserve, includes the FOMC's projection for inflation and economic growth over the next 2 years and, more importantly, a breakdown of individual FOMC member's interest rate forecasts.