As the Federal Reserve hiked interest rates through 2022-2023, rates on high-yield savings accounts and CDs rose in tandem. But since the Federal Reserve began holding interest rates steady (which it did at a fifth consecutive meeting in March), savings rates have started to fall. If the Fed cuts interest rates later this year, as expected, savings rates will likely drop even further. As rates continue to go down, consider locking in rates while they're still high.
To combat inflation, the Federal Reserve hiked interest rates in an attempt to drive spending down, as consumers realized higher commercial interest rates on mortgages, credit card APRs and other loans. There was a silver lining, however — as the federal funds rate increased, interest rates on high-yield savings accounts and CDs did too, as is typical. Offering a high APY (annual percentage yield) on accounts is an effective way for banks to compete for customers and attract deposits.
