Rising Interest Rates: What Do They Mean For You?

by PrimeWay
Rising Interest Rates

You've probably seen the financial headlines announcing that the Federal Reserve is raising interest rates.

These can be confusing because most articles fail to discuss the impact on your life. The prime interest rate is the rate the Federal Reserve charges financial institutions to borrow from it. It influences many financial prices, many of which only concern economic enthusiasts. Here are some ways the prime rate hikes can affect your life!

1. Get out of your ARM

Many people opted for adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) when interest rates were historically low. These mortgages offer better rates for an introductory period before they adjust to a new rate, which is partially determined by the Federal Reserve rate.

The Federal Reserve plans to continuously increase interest rates as the economy improves. Consequently, your adjustable rate will likely increase, and your monthly mortgage payment may become unpredictable. Fortunately, you can still refinance your mortgage into a fixed-rate loan and take advantage of still-low rates right now. If you need any assistance exploring your options, PrimeWay Federal Credit Union can help you figure out what is the best financial move for you and your family. Click here for more!
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2. Balance your portfolio

The past six years' low interest rates have done wonders for the stock market. With the affordable borrowing rates, companies expanded rapidly, directly fueling stock price growth. As interest rates rise, that credit availability will decrease. Companies will find it harder to expand, their growth will slow and stock prices will decline.

Rising interest rates will also increase bond rates. Their price will rise accordingly, as more investors chase those rates. You can speak with our investment resources team to ensure that your portfolio is properly balanced in accordance with changing market conditions.

3. Save more

The rising interest rate affects the rates financial institutions offer account holders. When it's expensive to borrow from other institutions, it's more profitable for those institutions to "borrow" from their members through certificates and savings accounts. As interest rates rise, it'll be increasingly more profitable to stow your money in an interest-bearing account.

If you've been delaying opening a certificate or increasing the deposits in your share account, consider it now. With a 12- or 24-month certificate, you can capitalize on rising interest rates, and we’re always here to help with these matters. Our investment resources team can offer you a no-cost, no-obligation consultation to discuss your financial goals, so please call me at (713) 799-6260 to set up an appointment.
Rising Interest Rates: What Do They Mean For You?

You've probably seen the financial headlines announcing that the Federal Reserve is raising interest rates.

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4. Refinance your debt

The service charges on several kinds of debt, like credit cards and private student loans, are tied to the prime rate and may increase along with it. That's why you might want to consider refinancing now.

Avoid an increased debt rate by refinancing to a personal loan or a home equity line of credit, which bundles your high-interest debt with your low-interest mortgage. Speak with a PrimeWay representative for other options - the sooner, the better.

The terminology surrounding financial news events is overwhelming. PrimeWay can help you make sense of a changing economic landscape. Call, click or stop by to learn how you can use this opportunity to put yourself on the path to financial wellness.

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Author Bio

PrimeWay

Since 1937, PrimeWay Federal Credit Union has been a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing superior financial services to members in the Houston area. We offer more personalized services than you'll traditionally find at more conventional financial institutions. Our hallmarks are low interest rate loans, higher dividends on deposits and excellent member services.

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