US Federal Reserve unleashes another big rate hike in bid to curb inflation

The US Federal Reserve on Wednesday raised its benchmark interest rate by a hefty three-quarters of a point for a second straight time in its most aggressive drive in three decades to tame high inflation.

The Fed’s move will raise its key rate, which affects many consumer and business loans, to a range of 2.25 per cent to 2.5 per cent, its highest level since 2018.

The central bank’s decision follows a jump in inflation to 9.1 per cent, the fastest annual rate in 41 years, and reflects its strenuous efforts to slow price gains across the economy.

By raising borrowing rates, the Fed makes it costlier to take out a mortgage or a car or business loan. Consumers and businesses then presumably borrow and spend less, cooling the economy and slowing inflation.

The Fed is tightening credit even while the economy has begun to slow, thereby heightening the risk that its rate hikes will cause a recession later this year or next. The surge in inflation and fear of a recession have eroded consumer confidence and stirred public anxiety about the economy, which is sending frustratingly mixed signals.

With the November midterm elections nearing, Americans’ discontent has diminished President Joe Biden’s public approval ratings and increased the likelihood that the Democrats will lose control of the House and Senate.