Federal Reserve raises interest rates amid persistent inflation and economic growth
PBS · September 20, 2026Original source ↗

What happened
The Federal Reserve has decided to increase interest rates in response to ongoing inflation and signals of a faster economic recovery. This marks a shift from the low interest-rate environment that characterized the years following the Great Recession.
Why it matters
The decision affects borrowing costs for consumers and businesses, influencing overall economic activity.
How this story affects people
How does this story affect you if you are shopping for a mortgage?
Higher interest rates mean that mortgage costs will increase, making it more expensive to borrow money for a home. This could lead to higher monthly payments and may limit your purchasing power.
How does this story affect you if you are a small business owner with variable-rate debt?
The increase in interest rates will raise your borrowing costs, impacting your ability to finance operations or invest in growth. This could strain your cash flow and affect your overall business stability.
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