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The Federal Reserve and Your Money

Interest rates are a little lower than they used to be, but they’re still near the highest levels in over a decade. Here’s what it means for your wallet.

The latest on the Fed from Bankrate’s experts

“It is tempting to romanticize the idea of lower interest rates, particularly from a borrowing perspective. But the reason for lower interest rates is very important. We want interest rates to come down because inflation pressures are easing, not because the economy is weakening.”

– Greg McBride, CFA

Fed skips another interest rate cut, warns of ‘potential’ for stagflation

The Federal Reserve voted on Wednesday to keep interest rates steady for the third consecutive meeting even while acknowledging that unemployment could increase, a decision that signals officials are more concerned about inflation than the possibility of a recession.
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Recent interest rate trends

Every time the Federal Reserve adjusts interest rates, borrowing and savings rates move in lockstep. Compare Bankrate data to see how the latest Fed decision is impacting rates on key consumer products.

Experts in all things finance

Our expert reporters and editors bring the news and analysis you need—backed by data and firsthand experience.

About Bankrate
Greg McBride

Greg McBride, CFA Arrow Right Icon

Chief Financial Analyst

Sarah Foster

Sarah Foster Arrow Right Icon

Principal U.S. Economy Reporter

Mark Hamrick

Mark Hamrick Arrow Right Icon

Senior Economic Analyst

Latest articles

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Credit card interest rates have a high mark up over the prime rate. Why are card APRs so high?
The Federal Reserve’s decisions have ripple effects, including for mortgages.
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Bankrate’s experts are reacting live to the Fed’s latest interest rate decision.
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The Fed’s rate hold means loans costs are sticking. Here’s what it means for your business.
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Subprime borrowers are particularly affected by interest rate changes. Here’s how to prepare.
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The Fed has hit the pause button on rates. How will it affect the housing market?
If you’re looking at HE Loans or have a variable-rate line of credit, pay attention to the Fed.
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Does the Fed interest rate affect car loans? Yes, it does: It has a domino effect that can raise or lower auto loan rates.
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The Fed hopes to prevent major market disruptions that could cause rates to spike.
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The Fed’s policy toolkit has changed almost as much as interest rates itself.
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Recession odds have fallen from a high of 65 percent in the third quarter of 2023.
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Economists are divided over when inflation will hit the Fed’s 2 percent goal.
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Experts still expect a major hiring slowdown, even if it hasn’t happened yet.
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Rate cuts might not bring the relief consumers have been waiting for.
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The Fed plays a role in influencing every financial decision you make.
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The Fed’s board has a powerful influence over interest rates and monetary policy.
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Bankrate’s experts are reacting live to the Fed’s latest interest rate decision.
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The key benchmark has been as high as 20 percent — and as low as 0 percent.
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Trump’s tariffs could raise prices and unemployment, backing the Fed in a corner.
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If the Fed’s independence is jeopardized, here’s what experts say it could mean for your wallet.
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You might not feel better about inflation because prices are still up post-pandemic.
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Savings yields topping inflation could let you hold onto your purchasing power.
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This Fed communication tool is important, but be cautious when interpreting it.
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