Adjusting bond buying isn't the Fed's only focus

More than 60% of 44 economists surveyed by USA TODAY last week say the Fed will reduce its $85 billion in monthly bond purchases, which are aimed at holding down long-term interest rates and spurring economic growth. The Fed has said it will taper the purchases gradually and likely end them by mid-2014, assuming the economy and job market continued to improve.

Other things to watch for Wednesday out of the Fed's statement and Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke's afternoon news conference:

• A change in interest rate guidance. Several economists say the Fed could lower the threshold for raising its benchmark short-term interest rate. Fed policymakers have said they'll keep the fed funds rate near zero at least until unemployment, now 7.3%, falls to 6.5%, provided the inflation outlook is below 2.5%. Most Fed policymakers have previously forecast the first rate hike for 2015.

Read More: www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2013/09/17/fed-meeting-advance/2827375/