Fed Likely to Hold Rates Steady, But Future Cuts Possible Depending on Inflation and Economy

• Fed expected to keep interest rates steady at 5.25-5.50%; will watch for hints on future rate cuts • Projected path for rate cuts in 2024 could shift if inflation proves stubborn • Powell's comments at news conference will give updates on Fed's thinking • Fed also discussing plans to shrink balance sheet of bond holdings • Mortgage rates, credit card rates track closely with Fed changes; student loan rates less directly tied