The Federal Reserve lowered its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points, or 0.25%, to a range of 3.50% to 3.75% on Dec. 10. This was the third rate reduction of 2025. The cut was expected by investors based on labor and inflation data as well as public comments made by Fed decision-makers in the weeks leading up to the committee meeting. Signs of a weakening labor market contributed to all three rate reductions this year. The big question investors are asking is how these lower rates could affect thei ...