The Federal Reserve is set to announce its interest rate decision at 3:00 AM on Thursday, with market expectations pointing to a 25 basis point cut, bringing rates to 3.50%-3.75%. This decision comes amid a rare division within the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), as some members may oppose further rate reductions. The ongoing government shutdown has resulted in missing key October data, leading to anticipated minimal changes in the Summary of Economic Projections and the dot plot. Market attention is also on the potential launch of a Reserve Management Bond-Buying Program (RMP) following the end of balance sheet reduction. Bank of America forecasts that the Fed might purchase around $45 billion in short-term Treasury bonds monthly starting January, potentially reaching $60 billion if combined with mortgage-backed securities reinvestment. If announced, the RMP could shift the meeting's focus from interest rates to balance sheet management.