NEW YORK (AP) — The Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate by a quarter point Wednesday for the second time since September. Before that, it had gone nine months without a cut. The federal funds rate is the rate at which banks borrow and lend to one another. While the rates consumers pay to borrow money aren’t directly linked to this rate, shifts affect what you pay for credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, and other financial products. “While the full economic impact of such a move will unfold o ...

Core Points - The Federal Reserve has implemented a quarter percentage point interest rate cut, lowering the benchmark to a target range of 4%-4.25%, the lowest in nearly three years [1] - The Federal Open Market Committee has indicated future directions for monetary policy [1] Group 1 - There was only one dissenting vote during the Federal Reserve's decision, contrary to expectations of multiple "no" votes, suggesting a unified front among committee members [2] - The primary challenge for the Federal Reserve in the coming years will be maintaining full employment, as the hiring environment is becoming less healthy despite a well-operating economy [2] - Analysts suggest that the Federal Reserve may tolerate inflation above its target due to upcoming personnel changes, indicating a potential shift in monetary policy approach [2]

ToplineThe Federal Reserve on Wednesday voted to lower interest rates—following months of pressure and criticism from President Donald Trump—as the central bank signaled additional cuts later this year. President Donald Trump has urged the central bank to “CUT INTEREST RATES, NOW, AND BIGGER” than they might plan to.Getty ImagesKey FactsThe Federal Open Market Committee voted 11-1 in favor of lowering interest rates by a quarter-point to between 4% and 4.25%, down from the 4.25% to 4.5% range where they hav ...

Monetary Policy & Interest Rates - The Federal Reserve is widely expected to hold rates steady at the current FOMC meeting [1] - Some governors may dissent, arguing for lower rates [2] - The Fed is likely to keep options open, including a potential action in September [3][4][10] - The market believes that the Fed cutting rates is not a certainty, as evidenced by long rates increasing the last time rates were cut [11] - The Fed's control over the long end of the curve is limited, influenced more by future growth prospects and treasury supply/demand [12][14] Inflation & Economic Factors - There are disinflationary forces at play, including sluggish growth, regulatory review, and the AI boom [3] - Tariffs will increase costs, but the impact on persistent price pressures in a disinflationary environment is uncertain [4][5] - The Fed is trying to determine if cost increases are one-time events [6] - The unemployment rate is low due to decelerating workforce growth, not aggressive hiring [9] Labor Market - Hiring levels are sluggish and may continue to be so [10] Fed's Mandate - Price stability is considered a primary job for the Federal Reserve by many [8] - The Fed has been overbalanced towards inflation concerns recently due to the tariff situation [10] - The Fed is expected to try to get more balanced between inflation and full employment, which may lead to action [10] Fed's Decision-Making - The decision to cut rates requires a consensus among the 12 voting members, not solely the Fed chair's decision [14]

Economic Indicators - Full employment occurs when all willing workers are employed, resulting in a 0% unemployment rate [1]