The Federal Reserve started raising interest rates aggressively in 2022 to tame inflation, which reached 9% at one point. As a result, interest rates are now the highest they've been in over two decades.
But with inflation back at around 3%, Federal Reserve policymakers have indicated the possibility of two to three rate cuts over the next year or so.
Here are some smart money moves you should consider in a falling interest rate environment.
Get more out of your savings
When interest rates fall, bond values generally go up. With interest rates expected to decline in the intermediate term, bonds and other fixed-income assets become a lot less risky.
If you've had money sitting on the sidelines in savings and money market accounts, you may want to consider CDs, intermediate-term Treasuries, Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities, and for those who are tax-sensitive, getting into municipal bonds, which are generally exempt from federal income taxes.
Note: Long-term bonds are more volatile than short-term bonds, all other things being equal. But when interest rates are falling, that volatility is likely in your favor.
Invest in growth stocks
Lower interest rates can lead to better borrowing conditions for companies and potentially higher stock prices, especially for growth-oriented firms and financial services companies.
Lock in guaranteed income
As interest rates fall, payout rates on annuities decline as well. That means lower incomes on most annuities. If you're retired or planning to retire soon, now may be a good time to lock in today's guaranteed rates on annuities, before annuity companies have to slash them.
Consider variable rate mortgages
Variable rate mortgages typically start with a lower interest rate than fixed mortgages. If rates fall, your mortgage payment will become more affordable, as well. In contrast, if you have a fixed mortgage, your payment would stay the same.
The catch: If interest rates rise instead of fall, your variable rate mortgage payments will increase as well. So don't overextend yourself so much that you have trouble if rates should unexpectedly turn against you.
Refinance debt
As interest rates come down, you'll see more opportunities to refinance existing high-interest debts, like credit cards and personal loans. You may even be able to refinance your mortgage at a lower rate.
The best refinance and borrowing opportunities go to people with stronger credit scores. So, pay down existing high-interest debt, and make sure you make all payments on time.
Expand or start a business
Need to borrow money to purchase some equipment for your business? Or start a business from scratch? Lower-rate environments are the best time to make those investments.
Buy real estate
Lower interest rates can stimulate the real estate market by making home-buying more affordable. This provides headroom for home values to increase.
Conclusion
Change brings opportunity. When interest rates are falling, it's often a good time to take on some more investment risks, and to be more aggressive in the expectation of higher returns.
But keep in mind that interest rates can climb as quickly as they fall. So, you want to be mindful of the risks, stay diversified — and be prepared for any eventuality.
Give us a call if you'd like to discuss this in more detail.