Interest Rates

Interest rates refer to the percentage charged on borrowed money or paid on savings and investments over a specific period. They are a critical component of financial systems, influencing economic activity, consumer behavior, and investment decisions. When interest rates rise, borrowing becomes more expensive, which can lead to reduced consumer spending and investment. Conversely, lower interest rates decrease the cost of borrowing, encouraging spending and investment, which can stimulate economic growth. Interest rates can be influenced by central banks through monetary policy and are determined by various factors including inflation, economic stability, and market demand for credit. They are expressed as an annual percentage rate (APR) and are fundamental in consumer loans, mortgages, and savings accounts.