The U.S. central bank is widely expected to cut interest rates for the first time this year, despite the economy sending mixed signals.

The Federal Reserve's two-day policy-setting meeting begins Tuesday. Policy committee members may be divided on their decision and forecasts.

The Federal Reserve is expected to cut its benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a point when it meets on Wednesday, the first cut in about a year. It has been described by those who watch the Fed as the most unprecedented meeting in many years due to political pressure from President Trump.