Interest rates

An investigation into LIBOR -- a crucial interest-rate benchmark -- has resulted in a fine for Barclays and the resignation of its chairman, Marcus Agius. But what does it all mean for the average American? Easy Street is here to help.

I have been paying down my debt using the snowball method. I'm making great headway and have cut my debt load in half in 3 years. I'm at a point where I need to choose between a home-equity loan with a variable rate (currently at 4.24 percent but eligible for tax deductions) and a car loan at 3.5 percent fixed. Which makes more sense to pay down? Scott, Chatham, MI

There is an implication by those in the media that the Fed is essentially out of tools when it comes to lowering interest rates. Can the Federal Reserve lower the Fed Funds rate below zero? If so, what would be the implications for borrowers, savers and the macroeconomy? Richard, Marietta, GA

Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke may announce a new plan for interest rates today on Capitol Hill. Six in 10 Americans want the Federal Reserve to consider the negative impact of low interest rates on retirees and savings.

Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke is on Capitol Hill today and he's under pressure to do more to stimulate the economy in the United States.

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke was on Capital Hill today, he didn't rule out action, but did not suggest any immediate policy changes.

China's central bank this morning surprised global markets by cutting interest rates for the first time since 2008 in an effort to stimulate the slowing economy.

Spain raised $2.6 billion in a bond sale this morning, but the higher interest rate of 6.1 percent shows that investors are still concerned that Spain has not wiped their hands clean of the financial mess just yet.

All eyes are on Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke today as he testifies today on Capitol Hill and announces his plans for interest rates and quantitative easing.