Fed: Rates Increased for Second Time This Year

As predicted by all officials, the Fed raised rates for the second time in 2018—from 1.75 percent to 2 percent. The remainder of 2018 and 2019 may see more gradual hikes, with analysts predicting two more increases by year’s end in order to curb future inflation concerns following reports of a strong labor market and economic conditions.
“In view of realized and expected labor market conditions and inflation, the Committee decided to raise the target range for the federal funds