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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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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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Some purchases could cost you hundreds more today than a year ago.
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The economy doesn’t need the punchbowl anymore, but raising rates will still bring pain.
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Americans are desperately waiting for some relief from inflation.
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The results highlight experts’ concerns about the U.S. economy.
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Americans are finding it impossible to avoid inflation.
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The majority put the economy’s recession chances at 50 percent or more.
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High inflation has a financial toll similar to job loss.
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Experts say long-standing issues such as the gender pay gap are contributing to women’s financial stress.
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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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