The Fed made an unexpected half-point rate cut, its first since 2020, as it aims to balance robust employment with its inflation target. Learn more about the economic implications, market reactions and future projections.

Given the Fed's reluctance to "surprise markets or take actions that could be perceived as overtly political," Interactive Brokers Chief Strategist Steve Sosnick said, "we find it hard to believe that anything other than 25 bp is the likely outcome for the upcoming FOMC meeting.

With a potential interest rate cut on the way, market volatility is expected to rise. Join MarketBeat analyst Thomas as he breaks down what this means for inflation, economic growth, and the stock market's trajectory.