NPR

The Fed already had a tough inflation fight. Now, it must deal with banks collapsing

Consumer prices in February were 6% higher than a year ago, as inflation continues to ease. The data comes just days after the collapse of two regional lenders is roiling the banking system.
A security guard at Silicon Valley Bank monitors a line of people outside the office in Santa Clara, Calif., on March 13, 2023. The Fed will now need to factor in the impact of the collapse of the lender, along with Signature Bank, as it makes its next decision on interest rates.

The Federal Reserve's fight against inflation just got harder.

The high-profile collapse of two regional banks in recent days has sparked new fears about the country's banking system and raised questions about how much higher the Fed should push interest rates in its effort to curb prices.

Data released Tuesday showed inflation continues to ease, but prices are still climbing at a rapid rate.

Consumer prices in February were 6% higher than a year ago, according

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR2 min read
Peloton Is Laying Off Workers And Replacing The CEO — Again
It's déjà vu for the luxury fitness company: Peloton is cutting about 400 more jobs, and its CEO is stepping down just two years after a major shakeup.
NPR7 min readAmerican Government
Trump Trial Coverage
The news media face a number of temptations while covering the criminal trial of former President Donald Trump, including dwelling on salacious details, overdramatizing insignificant moments, and getting distracted by out-of-court behaviors that have
NPR1 min readAmerican Government
FTC Bars Former Pioneer CEO In Exxon Mobil Deal, Saying He Colluded With OPEC
Exxon Mobil's $60 billion deal to buy Pioneer Natural Resources received federal clearance, but former Pioneer CEO Scott Sheffield was barred from joining the new company's board of directors.

Related Books & Audiobooks