EXCLUSIVE: Federal Reserve To Hold Interest Rates Steady Wednesday? Here's How Investors Are Bracing For The Results

Benzinga polled its readers to see what they thought ahead of the June Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) on Wednesday.

"How do you expect this decision to impact the stock market in the short term?" Benzinga asked.

• Only 31% of respondents believed Wednesday's FOMC decision would have a positive impact on the stock market.
• Twenty-five percent believe the FOMC result could have a negative impact on the stock market.
• 45% believe there will be no significant impact from the meeting.

The survey also explored the primary concerns of the respondents regarding the Federal Reserve's decision. The results highlighted three main areas of worry:

• 44% of respondents are concerned about inflation continuing to rise.
• 34% are worried about economic growth slowing down.
• 22% are focused on the stability of their personal savings and investments.

A third question on the personal financial impact saw a mix of emotions ahead of the June FOMC.

• 24% feel confident and secure about their personal financial situation following the announcement.
• A larger portion, 45%, feel anxious and uncertain.
• 31% of respondents feel indifferent or unaffected by the Federal Reserve’s decision.

Related Link: US Inflation Eases More Than Expected In May, Boosts 2024 Rate Cut Prospects Ahead Of Wednesday’s Fed Meeting

The survey results indicated a mixed sentiment among respondents about the Federal Reserve's decision to keep interest rates steady.

While a significant portion of the participants do not expect any major changes in the stock market, there is a notable concern about the potential for rising inflation, slowing economic growth and their own financial wellbeing.

Wednesday's FOMC decision comes as major stock market indexes are at all-time highs. On Wednesday, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust SPY closed at an all-time high of $536.95.

The study was conducted by Benzinga on June 11, 2024 and included the responses of a diverse population of adults 18 or older. Opting into the survey was completely voluntary, with no incentives offered to potential respondents. The study reflects results from 134 adults.

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