Euro crisis tests role of ECB

Jun 6, 2012
There was no cut in interest rates from the European Central Bank today, but some would like the ECB to take action soon.

Is it time for the U.S. to borrow big?

Jun 5, 2012
Spain nears a credit crisis, worldwide markets are down, and U.S. borrowing costs near zero. Some economists argue this economic instant is the best time for the U.S. government to invest in infrastructure projects.

A subdued reading on rates

Apr 2, 2012
The survey consensus was for no increase to slight increase in interest rates for 2012. Nothing dramatic. Very muted. There's no sense that the economy will turn gangbusters. At best, the economy will show modest gains in 2012.

The future of low-cost borrowing

Feb 28, 2012
The Federal Reserve's policy of low interest rates allows the government to borrow money at little cost. But analysts predict it's just a matter of time before interest rates shoot back up.

Bernanke stands firm on low interest rates

Feb 7, 2012
How does Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke know the economy will need low interest rates through 2014? He doesn’t, but we listen anyway.

The downside of low interest rates

Jan 26, 2012
Retirees see less return on savings; some businesses invest in tech, not workers.

For public good, not for profit.

Watching the Fed

Jan 24, 2012
Tomorrow the Federal Reserve Bank will let all 17 members of its committee publicly reveal they think will happen to interest rates in the coming months and years. Will this be good news for nervous markets?

Existing home sales up for 2011

Jan 20, 2012
Slightly stronger pre-loved home sales made 2011 a better year for realtors, but a “shadow inventory” still lurks.

Americans choose renting

Jan 5, 2012
Despite record-low mortgage rates, Americans are yet to wade back into home-ownership.