NEW YORK — As the federal government shutdown stretches into its fourth week, all eyes turn to the Federal Reserve, which is set to reveal its latest decision on interest rates this Wednesday.

The ongoing shutdown has interrupted the release of crucial economic data that typically informs the Fed’s rate-setting process, leaving policymakers to navigate without the usual flow of market statistics and reports.

With the job market showing signs of slowing, investors are anticipating the Fed might announce a rate cut for the second time this year. However, given the scarcity of current data, experts suggest that the Fed could choose a more cautious approach.