WATCH LIVE: Fed Chair Powell holds news briefing after latest interest rate decision

Fed Chair Jerome Powell is holding a news briefing Wednesday following the Federal Reserve's decision to maintain its benchmark interest rate at approximately 3.6%, the second consecutive meeting without a change. The hold signals the central bank's current pause in its rate-adjustment cycle as it assesses inflation trends and economic conditions. Powell's remarks will likely clarify the Fed's stance on future rate moves and provide guidance to markets and policymakers about monetary policy direction. The Fed's interest rate decisions directly influence borrowing costs for consumers and businesses across mortgages, credit cards, and loans. Investors and economists will scrutinize Powell's comments for signals about whether rate cuts or increases may come in subsequent meetings.