WASHINGTON —

Economists expect the Federal Reserve to announce a 0.25% interest rate cut at the conclusion of its two-day meeting this week. Wednesday's announcement aims to stabilize the economy by addressing inflation and employment concerns.

The Federal Reserve's job is to promote monetary policy to stabilize the economy. The independent agency adjusts interest rates to maintain prices, inflation, and keep people employed. Often, the Fed plays a careful balancing game. If it raises interest rates too quickly and too high, it could lead to slowed consumer spending and a hit to the economy. At the same time, if it lowers interest rates too quickly, inflation could spike back up. Advertisement

Last month, the government reported that inflation currently stands at around 2.9%, above

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