Fed Holds Interest Rates Steady, Warnings Draw Attention 

The U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed), in its May 7, 2025 meeting, kept the interest rate steady at the 4.25%-4.5% range. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) highlighted growing threats to economic growth and employment. Fed Chair Jerome Powell, in a press conference, stated, “Large tariff increases could slow the economy, prolong inflation, and increase job losses.” Powell’s remarks were interpreted as criticism of the Trump administration’s trade policies. 

The Fed’s decision to maintain rates heightened market uncertainty. Powell’s tariff warning prompted investors to adopt a cautious stance. Despite this, alternative assets like Bitcoin saw an upswing. 

President Donald Trump, on the same day, emphasized that tariffs on China would not be lifted. Although talks with Chinese officials were scheduled for the weekend in Switzerland, Trump showed no signs of compromise. This escalated global trade tensions. Trump stated, “Our trade policies will strengthen the U.S. economy,” reaffirming his commitment to his approach. 

U.S. stock markets experienced volatility following the Fed’s decision and tariff tensions. The S&P 500 rose by 0.2%. The Dow Jones gained 200 points, or 0.5%, driven by gains in banking stocks. However, the Nasdaq fell 0.4% due to losses in technology stocks. Notably, Alphabet dropped 6% amid rumors of a new AI-focused search engine. Apple also lost 1% in value. While banking stocks rallied, the technology sector underperformed due to tariff concerns. 

Bitcoin Surge and Profit-Taking 

Following the Fed’s decision, Bitcoin rose 2%, approaching $97,000. According to CoinGecko data, Bitcoin gained over 20% in the past week. CryptoQuant’s analysis indicated that investors accelerated profit-taking. Daily realized profits exceeded $1 billion, signaling an advanced stage of the bull market. 

CryptoQuant noted that high profit-taking could increase the risk of a pullback. However, if profit-taking slows, Bitcoin could enter a new upward trend. The Fed’s interest rate policies indirectly influence crypto markets. JPMorgan analysts predict that the Fed’s cautious stance may sustain volatility in crypto markets. 

Post-Fed Decision Outlook 

Powell warned that tariff increases could fuel inflation and slow growth. “We won’t rush into rate cuts,” Powell said, emphasizing a focus on economic data. Analysts predict the Fed could implement two rate cuts in 2025. However, Trump’s policies may alter these expectations. Goldman Sachs forecasts a potential rate cut in June 2025, though tariff policies’ impact on inflation could delay this timeline. 

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