<Anchor>

The US central bank today froze the benchmark interest rate at its current level as expected by the market. However, the optimism about the US economy remained intact, suggesting the possibility of an increase in the next month.

It is the largest correspondent in New York.

<Reporter>

The central bank has unanimously agreed to freeze the benchmark interest rate at the end of a two-day regular meeting.

Statements released after the meeting did not show much difference from last September.

The US employment market continued to be strong and economic activity was growing at a rapid pace.

The unemployment rate in the United States last month was 3.7 percent, the lowest level since December 1969.

Accordingly, the gradual rate hike will continue to expand economic activity and support the price target of 2%.

However, the Federal Reserve has pointed out that corporate fixed investment is sluggish compared to the beginning of the year.

Some US companies reported that they were cutting their investment plans at the time of the 3Q earnings announcement, due to the effects of the actual US trade disputes.

The Fed has raised the benchmark interest rate three times this year.

Although President Trump has been blatantly uneasy about the Fed's rate hike, the market is expected to see a fourth rate hike next month.

In a statement, the Federal Reserve did not comment on the sudden change in the stock market last month as a result of the rise in long-term interest rates.