Federal Reserve: Latest News, Analysis and Impact

When talking about the Federal Reserve, most people think of a big bank that sets the nation's money rules. Federal Reserve, the central banking system of the United States, controls money supply, supervises banks and aims for stable prices and employment. Also known as Fed, it acts as the economic backbone, influencing everything from mortgage rates to grocery prices.

The core of the Fed’s work is Monetary Policy, the set of actions used to manage inflation, employment and economic growth. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meets regularly to decide whether to raise, cut or hold interest rates. Those decisions directly affect the Interest Rates, the cost of borrowing money that banks pass on to consumers and businesses. In simple terms, when the Fed says rates go up, loans become pricier and spending slows; when rates drop, borrowing gets cheaper and the economy gets a boost.

Interest rates and monetary policy are tightly linked to Inflation, the rate at which prices for goods and services rise over time. High inflation erodes purchasing power, so the Fed may hike rates to cool demand. Conversely, low inflation can signal weak demand, prompting rate cuts to spur activity. Both inflation and rates ripple through the US Economy, the combined production, consumption and financial activity of the United States. A strong economy can handle higher rates, while a shaky one needs lower rates to stay afloat.

All of these pieces—monetary policy, interest rates, inflation and the broader economy—are part of a constant feedback loop that the Fed monitors day in, day out. Below, you’ll find a curated collection of recent stories, analysis and expert commentary that break down how the Federal Reserve’s moves are shaping markets, households and policy debates right now. Dive in to see the latest updates and what they could mean for you.