Interest rates
Current trend: escalating · Category: Money · Last updated: July 29, 2026
Current situation
The latest Federal Reserve meeting didn't clarify matters much. The Fed left their target rate unchanged. The new Fed chair has been transparent that they intend to be...well, __less__ transparent. That means investors will focus more on market moves in stocks and bonds, which initially took the latest announcement poorly but can be volatile the day(s) after a decision. Rates on longer-term Treasury debt have hovered near decade highs, which could be an enormous headwind for businesses and consumers alike.
Why we're watching
Interest rates dictate the literal cost of borrowing money. From mortgages to car loans to credit card debt, the Federal Reserve's rate decisions act as the baseline for personal purchasing power. The rate that matter most to many businesses and households track longer-term Treasury yields, especially the 10-year maturity.
What to watch for next
Next Federal Reserve rate decision September 16, 10-year Treasury yield, Mortgage rates
Signal history
- 2026-07-29 — Divided Fed holds interest rates steady Despite increasing support among some officials for a rate increase, the Federal Open Market Committee voted 9-3 to leave the federal funds rate in a range between 3.5% and 3.75%. Officials favoring tighter policy argued inflation has been a burden on households and is not showing clear signs of abating.
- 2026-07-08 — U.S. Treasury yields soar after Donald Trump says Iran ceasefire is ‘over’ Rising yield on 10-year Treasury notes likely to drive borrowing costs higher