On September 18, 2024, the Federal Reserve made a significant move by cutting interest rates by half a percentage point for the first time since 2020. This decision has mixed implications for consumers. For homebuyers and those with savings accounts, the cut may not bode well, as it could lead to lower returns on savings and make mortgages more expensive. However, credit card users might see a slight benefit in the long run. While immediate changes to credit card interest rates may not be noticeable, over time, consumers could experience a minor decrease in their annual percentage rates (APRs). The prime rate, which typically follows the Fed's target rate, is expected to hover around 7.75 to 8 percent, influencing credit card issuers to adjust their rates accordingly. For example, a drop from 20.76% to 20.26% on an $8,000 balance results in a mere $3.28 monthly savings, highlighting that while the cut is a positive sign for the economy, its direct impact on credit card debt is minimal.
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