Interest rates determine how much money needs to be paid or received when borrowing or lending. When you deposit money in a bank, such as Mary did, the bank pays you interest for using your money. On the other hand, when you take a loan, like Owen's Bakery, the bank charges you interest.
Interest rates are typically expressed as a percentage of the principal, which is the amount of money on which the interest is applied. This percentage can be a fixed rate, which stays the same throughout the term, or a variable rate, which can change.
- A lower interest rate on savings means less earning on deposits.
- Conversely, a higher interest rate on loans means more cost for borrowing.
Understanding interest rates is crucial in making financial decisions, whether it's choosing the best savings account or evaluating the cost of a loan.