U.S. Federal Reserve policymakers meeting next week are expected to keep interest rates on hold but the larger story unfolding will be how the central bank confronts early moves by President Donald Trump that are likely to shape the economy this year,

Key Takeaways It would be a huge surprise to financial markets if the Federal Reserve did anything other than hold its interest rate flat when the Fed's policy committee meets Wednesday.The Fed's battle to subdue inflation is entering a holding pattern.

It is highly unlikely that the Federal Open Market Committee will cut interest rates on January 29. However, a cut in March or May could be possible.