Fed minutes underline "higher for longer" stance as inflation worries linger

The Federal Reserve held its policy rate at 3.50%–3.75%, and the latest meeting minutes signaled growing concern that inflation remains stubborn. Policymakers also appeared less willing to telegraph an eventual pivot toward easing. The meeting recorded four dissents—the most since 1992—highlighting a widening split within the committee. The tone points to a more challenging macro environment for $BTC and other risk assets if expectations for rate cuts continue to recede.