The Fed will release its formal FOMC statement and rates decision today at 12:30 pm (ET). While the Fed is likely to make no changes to its stance on monetary policy, everyone will be on the edge of their seats waiting to here what Ben has to say. At 2:15 pm (ET), Ben will hold his first post-FOMC meeting press conference. According to the Wall Street Journal, here are some details on the mechanics of the post-FOMC press conference:
-Bernanke will give only a brief opening statement.
-Only one reporter per credentialed news organization.
-Reporters will be called on; questions will not be pre-screened or submitted ahead of time; follow-ups are possible.
-Economic projections to be released when press conference starts.
-Press conference is expected to last 45 minutes.