RBA's Hauser Flags Uncertainty on Rate Settings Amid Iran War Economic Risks 
BOJ Holds Interest Rates at 0.75% as Policymakers Signal Growing Inflation Concerns 
Bank of England Set to Hold Interest Rates as Inflation Risks and Iran War Impact Loom 
BOJ Governor Kazuo Ueda Hints at Rate Hike as Inflation Pressures Build 
ECB Rate Outlook: Ceasefire Eases Pressure but Hikes Still Expected in 2026 
Scheduled for release today, February 18, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET, the minutes of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) from its January 27–28, 2026, conference offera thorough understanding of the Fed's discussions. Markets expect attention on the committee's 10-2 vote to keep the federal funds rate at 3.5%–3.75%, two dissents for a 25bp cut, and fears about tariff-driven inflation.
Important Expectations
Investors want information on tariff effects, labor market easing, and the timeframe for possibly lowering interest rates; CME FedWatch indicates 90% chance of no change in March. If economic strength lasts, minutes could expose opinions on a "high-rate plateau" through late 2026, affecting company plans, including debt management.
Influence Market
The release is the highlight of the month, possibly influencing USD pairs and stocks; a hawkish posture might support the dollar; a dovish attitude might encourage cut bets for June or afterwards. For more context, match it with today's housing starts and robust product data.
