24. What are interest rates and how do they affect my finances?

Quick Answer:

‍Interest rates influence borrowing costs and returns on savings and investments.

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Learn More:

‍When central banks raise rates, loan repayments and mortgages increase while savings accounts and fixed-income instruments pay more. Lower rates typically encourage spending and boost equity prices but reduce returns on cash. Understanding the rate environment helps you decide whether to prioritise debt repayment or investment. For long-term investors, shifts in interest rates shape portfolio performance across bonds, real estate and equities — a reminder to maintain diversification rather than chase short-term yield changes.