Fed Interest Rates

By: EconomyWatch Content   Date: 4 November 2009

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Fed interest rate is the interest rate that banks charge each other for the use of Federal Reserve Bank (Fed) funds. The rate is a sensitive indicator to the change in interest rate trends. The Fed controls this rate and the way it buys and sells treasuries to banks.

Fed Interest Rates: Rate Cuts

When the Fed cuts the interest rates, it becomes easy for people to pay off loans and credit card debts quickly and spending less than the anticipated amount. Depending on the size of the debt, even a 1% interest rate has a significant impact on a person’s monthly savings.  

Here are some ways to take advantage of Fed interest rate cuts:

To pay off the debt sooner than later: When interest rates get cut, its hardly surprising to see the finance charges getting lower and minimum payments on one's credit cards and loans. It is advisable to keep the payment same or more, rather than decrease the payment because of lower minimums.

Either way, the debt level will fall faster than it did at higher interest rates or it may take more time before the cut is reflected on one's credit statements.

To transfer balances to a lower rate credit card: If a credit card has a fixed rate and one doesn’t have a leverage on the interest rate, he/should be able to transfer the balance to a card with a lower interest rate.

To refinance loans for lower rates: In case one is fulfilling a high interest rate loan, a good time to refinance is after a rate cut. With a good credit score, 720 or more, one is likely to get a lower rate on his/her loan to facilitate a smooth and hassle free balance.

Fed Interest Rates: Means of Information

For information about the fed interest rates, visit the official website of the US Federal Reserve Bank. Select the financial instrument for which rates are to be determined, such as certificates of deposit, mortgages or credit cards.

One can also assess the frequency of updates and view changes in fed rates on a periodical basis. The frequency of update is determined by the nature of the financial instrument for which one wishes to see the rates.


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