Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr said that although he was "hopeful" inflationfalls this year, that ​might not happen with higher oil prices spiking gasoline and other consumer costs. Barr's take mirrors increasing concerns from Main Street to Wall Street about the Fed’s interest-rate outlook due to recessionary and inflationary uncertainty. “While I am hopeful that inflation will fall as the effects of tariffs on prices wane later this year, I would like to see evidence that goods and services pric ...

Here’s a look at how today’s high-yield savings account rates stack up. The Federal Reserve cut the federal funds rate three times in 2025, which means deposit rates have been steadily declining. It's more important than ever to ensure you're earning the highest rate possible on your savings, and a high-yield savings account could be the solution. These accounts pay more interest than the typical savings account — as much as 4% APY and higher. Not sure where to find the best savings interest rates today? ...

Find out which banks are offering the best money market account rates right now. As interest rates continue to fall following the Fed’s recent rate cuts, it’s more important than ever to ensure you’re earning a competitive rate on your savings. One option you may want to consider is a money market account (MMA). Wondering where to find the top money market account rates today? Here’s what you need to know. Where to find the best money market account rates today From a historical perspective, money mark ...

NEW YORK (AP) — Hopes for a possible end to the war with Iran pushed stocks higher on Wall Street Wednesday, while oil prices eased. The S&P 500 rose 0.5% in its latest flip - flop after the United States delivered a plan to pause the war to Iran. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 305 points, or 0.7%, and the Nasdaq composite gained 0.8%. But the moves were shaky, and the S&P 500 briefly came close to erasing all of its jump, which maxed out at 1.2% during the morning. Financial markets have swung ...

The jump in gas prices stemming from the war in Iran has had another impact that may also affect many Americans’ finances: Higher interest ratesWASHINGTON -- The jump in gas prices stemming from the war in Iran has had another impact that may also affect many Americans' finances: Higher interest rates. Longer-term interest rates have risen quickly since the war began Feb. 28, pushing up the cost of mortgage loans, auto loans, and business borrowing. And with inflation measures likely to rise in the coming m ...

Gold, the world’s most enduring store of value, just suffered one of the most violent reversals in modern financial history. In the space of three brutal weeks, the precious metal has shed over 17% of its value, which is its worst weekly performance since 1983.The sell-off stretched across seven consecutive losing sessions, the longest losing streak since 2023, with single-day drops that shook even the most seasoned commodities traders.Why Gold Is Falling Despite War: Rising Rates, Strong Dollar, and Forced ...

Week ahead: Oil surge and Fed signals set the tone for Wall Street Proactive uses images sourced from Shutterstock Wall Street heads into the new week with oil driving the narrative, and everything else is reacting to it. Crude prices are expected to remain the dominant force, as investors watch developments in the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz and the risk of further supply disruptions. With Brent already pushing above $113 a barrel, the stakes for markets are rising quickly. “ ...

Chicago Federal Reserve President Austan Goolsbee said Monday that he's more worried about inflation now than he is unemployment, even with apparent progress made on the war with Iran.In a CNBC interview, the central banker said policymaking is difficult in the current environment. He spoke shortly after President Donald Trump announced that progress had been made in negotiations with Iran and that further attacks on energy infrastructure would be halted for five days as talks continue."The most important t ...

Core Insights - Money market accounts (MMAs) are currently offering competitive interest rates, with some accounts providing over 4% APY, making them an attractive option for cash storage and liquidity [3][11] Group 1: Interest Rate Trends - Historical fluctuations in MMA rates have been influenced by the Federal Reserve's interest rate policies, with rates dropping significantly during economic downturns, such as post-2008 financial crisis and during the COVID-19 pandemic [4][5] - Starting in 2022, the Federal Reserve initiated aggressive interest rate hikes to combat inflation, resulting in historically high MMA rates, which peaked in late 2023 [6] - As of 2026, MMA rates remain elevated compared to historical standards but are beginning to decline following recent rate cuts by the Federal Reserve [7] Group 2: Account Features and Considerations - When selecting a money market account, factors beyond interest rates, such as minimum balance requirements, fees, and withdrawal limits, are crucial for determining overall value [8][9] - Many MMAs require a substantial minimum balance, often $5,000 or more, to qualify for the highest advertised rates, and some may impose monthly maintenance fees that can reduce interest earnings [9] - It is essential to ensure that the chosen account is insured by the FDIC or NCUA, which protects deposits up to $250,000 per institution, per depositor [10] Group 3: Current Market Conditions - The national average interest rate for MMAs is currently 0.56%, while the best rates can reach around 4% APY, comparable to high-yield savings accounts [11] - There are no MMAs currently offering 5% APY, but some high-yield savings accounts from online banks may provide rates above 4% [13]

Core Insights - Second mortgage products, including HELOCs and home equity loans, are becoming increasingly popular as primary mortgage rates remain above 6% and the prime rate is near a three-year low [1] Group 1: HELOC and Home Equity Loan Rates - The average HELOC rate is currently 7.20%, with a low of 7.19% recorded in mid-January [2] - The national average rate for home equity loans stands at 7.47%, with a low of 7.38% noted in early December [2] - Rates are determined based on a minimum credit score of 780 and a maximum combined loan-to-value ratio (CLTV) of less than 70% [2] Group 2: Market Dynamics - Homeowners with low primary mortgage rates may find it frustrating to access the growing equity in their homes, making second mortgages like HELOCs or home equity loans a viable option [3] - Second mortgage rates are calculated using an index rate plus a margin, typically based on the prime rate, which is currently at 6.75% [4] - Lenders have different pricing methodologies for second mortgage products, making it essential for borrowers to shop around [5] Group 3: Lender Offerings and Comparisons - The best HELOC lenders provide low fees, fixed-rate options, and generous credit lines, allowing homeowners to utilize their equity flexibly [7] - An example of a competitive offering is FourLeaf Credit Union, which currently offers a HELOC APR of 5.99% for the first 12 months on lines up to $500,000 [8] - Home equity loans typically have fixed rates, making them easier to compare since they do not have introductory "teaser" rates [6][9] Group 4: Current Market Conditions - The national average for adjustable-rate HELOCs is 7.20%, while fixed-rate home equity loans average 7.47% [11] - For homeowners with significant equity and low primary mortgage rates, now may be an optimal time to secure a HELOC or home equity loan for various uses, including home improvements [12] - A $50,000 HELOC at a 7.25% interest rate would result in a monthly payment of approximately $302 during the 10-year draw period, but payments may increase during the repayment period [13]