Federal Reserve , Announces Pause On Rate Hikes , Amid Easing Inflation.<br />On September 20, the Federal Reserve paused its string <br />of interest rate hikes as it waits to see if its efforts <br />over the past 18 months have finally slowed inflation.<br />NBC reports that the central bank <br />kept its main policy rate in <br />the range of 5.25% to 5.5%. .<br />The Fed reportedly cited an easing of economic <br />conditions, while also noting that inflation remains <br />above the agency's intended 2% target.<br />According to the Fed, the economy is in good shape <br />as job gains slow and credit conditions tighten, <br />likely slowing economic activity and inflation.<br />In August, the Bureau of Labor Statistics <br />said that prices were up 3.7% compared <br />to the same time in 2022. .<br />The string of rate hikes has increased <br />interest rates on credit cards and mortgages, <br />which have reached all-time highs.<br />The string of rate hikes has increased <br />interest rates on credit cards and mortgages, <br />which have reached all-time highs.<br />Investors fear that the Fed's actions could <br />lead stock market sell-offs and a recession, <br />which would result in widespread job losses.<br />NBC reports that the Federal Open <br />Market Committee's next scheduled <br />meeting is on October 31.<br />This does not assure that <br />we won’t see another interest <br />rate increase in the months ahead, Greg McBride, Chief financial analyst for Bankrate, via NBC.<br />Inflation pressures are easing, <br />broadly speaking, but remain <br />well above desired levels with <br />the risk of further increases <br />in oil prices, so the Fed<br />cannot yet declare victory, Greg McBride, Chief financial analyst for Bankrate, via NBC
