Economy
Kasikorn Research Center Forecasts Fed Interest Rate Policy
Kasikorn Research Center expects the US Federal Reserve to maintain interest rates during the September meeting, with one hike projected for the remainder of the year.
According to a report from the Kasikorn Research Center published on September 12, 2026, analysts anticipate that the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) will hold interest rates steady at the 3.50–3.75% range during the upcoming Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting scheduled for September 15–16, 2026.
While the center expects no immediate adjustment this month, their outlook suggests that the Fed will likely implement one interest rate hike before the end of the year. The research indicates that signals regarding future monetary tightening have become increasingly clear.
For travelers and expatriates in Thailand, this forecast is significant as global interest rate trends often influence the strength of the Thai Baht against the U.S. Dollar. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates can directly impact the cost of living, travel expenses, and the purchasing power of those holding foreign currency within the country.
It remains to be confirmed whether the Federal Reserve will follow this projected path, as actual policy decisions depend on evolving economic data and the committee's assessment of the U.S. financial landscape. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor official announcements from the Federal Reserve following their mid-September meeting to understand how these global financial shifts may affect their personal finances in Thailand.
