# Economists Expect Fed to Hold in October and Raise Rates in December

By Enna Lee

Canonical URL: https://www.tokenpost.com/news/investing/35956
Published: 2026-10-20T20:49:27.000Z
Updated: 2026-10-20T20:49:27.000Z
Section: Investing

> Ninety-four of 100 economists expected no October increase, while all 100 forecast a December hike.

Economists overwhelmingly expect the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates unchanged at its October meeting and raise them in December, a tightening outlook relevant to crypto and other risk assets.

In a survey of 100 economists, 94 projected the Fed would leave its federal funds target range at 3.75%-4.00%. All 100 expected an increase in December. Fewer than half had forecast a December hike in the prior month's survey.

The results mark a sharp change in expectations over a month, even as policymakers signal patience amid persistent inflation.

The survey captures economists' forecasts, not a Fed decision. A higher rate outlook can influence financial conditions and investor appetite for risk assets, including cryptocurrencies.