Why are interest rates going up

Didier Malagies • October 7, 2024

The Federal Reserve influences interest rates in the economy, but its actions may not always align with the actual rates individuals or businesses experience in the market. Even if the Fed cuts its benchmark interest rates, other factors can cause rates, such as mortgage rates or bond yields, to rise. Here are some key reasons why rates might go up despite Fed rate cuts:


1. Inflation Concerns:

If inflation expectations are rising, lenders demand higher interest rates to compensate for the loss of purchasing power. Even with a Fed cut, inflationary pressures may push long-term rates up as investors seek higher returns to protect against inflation.

2. Economic Outlook:

Markets may interpret a Fed rate cut as a signal of economic weakness. If investors are concerned about future growth or financial stability, they may sell bonds or other interest-rate-sensitive assets, causing yields (interest rates) to rise.

3. Bond Market Dynamics:

The Federal Reserve primarily controls short-term interest rates, but long-term rates (e.g., mortgage rates) are influenced by the bond market. If investors sell bonds due to concerns like inflation, higher deficits, or geopolitical risks, bond prices fall and yields (long-term rates) rise.

4. Supply and Demand for Credit:

If the demand for borrowing increases, banks may raise interest rates to balance supply and demand. Conversely, if banks perceive increased risk in lending (for example, during uncertain economic times), they might increase the rates they charge to mitigate potential losses.

5. Global Factors:

International economic conditions, such as rising global interest rates or capital outflows from the U.S. to other countries, can push up domestic interest rates. For example, if rates rise in other countries, U.S. rates might rise to remain competitive and attract investment.

6. Federal Reserve Policy Expectations:

If markets believe that the Fed’s rate cut is temporary or that future inflationary pressures will force the Fed to raise rates again soon, long-term rates might increase in anticipation of those future rate hikes.

While the Fed can reduce its benchmark rate, the overall interest rate environment is influenced by broader economic factors, market expectations, and global dynamics.



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By Didier Malagies November 10, 2025
✅ the principal you borrowed ✅ all interest paid over the years ❌ It does NOT include taxes, insurance, or HOA unless noted. Because longer terms spread payments out more slowly, they lower the monthly payment but massively increase total interest paid. Below is a simple example to show how total payments change by loan term. ✅ Example: $300,000 loan at 6% interest 15-Year Mortgage Monthly payment: ≈ $2,531 Total paid: ≈ $455,682 Total interest: ≈ $155,682 30-Year Mortgage Monthly payment: ≈ $1,799 Total paid: ≈ $647,514 Total interest: ≈ $347,514 40-Year Mortgage Monthly payment: ≈ $1,650 Total paid: ≈ $792,089 Total interest: ≈ $492,089 50-Year Mortgage Monthly payment: ≈ $1,595 Didier Malagies nmls212566 DDA Mortgage nmls32432 Total paid: ≈ $956,140 Total interest: ≈ $656,140 ✅ Summary: Total Payments by Loan Term Term Monthly Payment Total Paid Over Life Total Interest 15-Year ~$2,531 $455,682 $155,682 30-Year ~$1,799 $647,514 $347,514 40-Year ~$1,650 $792,089 $492,089 50-Year ~$1,595 $956,140 $656,140 ✅ Key Takeaway A longer mortgage = lower payment, but the total paid skyrockets because interest accrues for decades longer. tune in and learn https://www.ddamortgage.com/blog didier malagies nmls#212566 dda mortgage nmls#324329
By Didier Malagies November 5, 2025
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By Didier Malagies November 3, 2025
Here are the main types of events that typically cause the 10-year yield to drop: Economic slowdown or recession signs Weak GDP, rising unemployment, or falling consumer spending make investors expect lower future interest rates. Example: A bad jobs report or slowing manufacturing data often pushes yields lower. Federal Reserve rate cuts (or expectations of cuts) If the Fed signals or actually cuts rates, long-term yields like the 10-year typically decline. Markets anticipate lower inflation and slower growth ahead. Financial market stress or geopolitical tension During crises (wars, banking issues, political instability), investors seek safety in Treasuries — pushing prices up and yields down. Lower inflation or deflation data When inflation slows more than expected, the “real” return on Treasuries looks more attractive, bringing yields down. Dovish Fed comments or data suggesting easing ahead Even before actual rate cuts, if the Fed hints it might ease policy, yields often fall in anticipation. tune in and learn https://www.ddamortgage.com/blog didier malagies nmls#212566 dda mortgage nmls#324329
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