Fed Decides on Cutting Rates on 7th of May: Crypto Markets Poised for Volatility

With the U.S. Federal Reserve’s next interest rate decision set for Wednesday, May 7, 2025, the markets appear overwhelmingly confident in one thing: a rate cut isn’t coming.
Crypto analyst Michaël van de Poppe shared a chart indicating that 97.2% of market participants expect the Fed to hold rates steady at the current target of 4.25% to 4.50%. Only 2.8% believe a cut to 4.00%-4.25% is possible, and 0% expect a rate hike.
This data—pulled from the Fed Funds Futures market—underscores a strong consensus that the central bank will remain in a holding pattern, prioritizing inflation control over economic stimulation for now.
A Surprise Could Shake the Market
Despite the overwhelming odds, van de Poppe notes:
“Would be a great surprise for the markets if a rate cut does happen.”
Indeed, any deviation from expectations—especially a surprise rate cut—could send shockwaves through equities, crypto, and bond markets, igniting short-term volatility and possibly sparking bullish momentum in risk assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Why It Matters for Crypto
Interest rate decisions significantly influence liquidity and risk appetite in markets. A rate hold signals a neutral stance, whereas a cut often injects optimism into speculative assets, making this decision particularly pivotal for the crypto sector.
As the Fed prepares to make its move, all eyes remain fixed on Wednesday.