Interest rates

For the first time in four years, more small businesses reported a drop in income than an increase, according to a survey by the 12 regional Federal Reserve banks.

The nation's central bank held interest rates steady in its first decision of the year.

The Labor Department estimates the economy added 256,000 jobs in December, indicating a resilient economy and labor market. For the Federal Reserve, which was already signaling a slowdown in rate cuts, the reading could justify holding rates steady.

The financial data firm Intercontinental Exchange is buying the firm that runs the Ameribor interest rate benchmark, which some community and regional banks back as a LIBOR alternative.

The industry should save on interest expenses this year as it follows the Fed's lead in cutting rates. The downside is that the lower deposit rates signal fewer opportunities to make loans.

The Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond president said while he believes the central bank's current level of rates is restraining the economy enough to continue lowering inflation in 2025, there are still upside risks to inflation and growth.

Several banks that boosted their capital bases this year saw their stock prices rise, a new analysis finds. The positive reception may drive more such activity.

This year saw the impact of Donald Trump's return to the White House, the first rate cut from the Federal Reserve in roughly four years and more.

Releasing the GSEs from government conservatorship is on the agenda for the incoming Trump administration. Doing so could threaten the 30-year fixed rate mortgage.

Annualized inflation increased to 2.7% in November from 2.6% the previous month, providing further evidence that the economy remains strong despite restrictive monetary policy.