Podcast: Chief Economist Explains Fed Interest Rate Approach and Impact

Economics
Published
Contact: Paul Lopez
[email protected]
Chief Operating Officer
(202) 266-8409

In the latest episode of NAHB’s podcast, Housing Developments, CEO Jim Tobin and SVP Paul Lopez are joined by Chief Economist Dr. Robert Dietz to discuss the Federal Reserve’s decision this week to leave interest rates unchanged.

Dietz explains how three potential rate decreases in 2024 could impact the home building and real estate markets next year and into 2025, and what further actions the Fed could take to help the industry.

Also, hear about some great recent wins by the NAHB Advocacy team in the last podcast episode of 2023. 

Subscribe to Housing Developments through your favorite podcast provider, or watch the episode below or on YouTube.

Subscribe to NAHBNow

Log in or create account to subscribe to notifications of new posts.

Log in to subscribe

Latest from NAHBNow

Advocacy

Apr 03, 2026

NAHB’s Monthly Update Features a Codes Victory and Economic Snapshot

The talking points this month feature news related to federal energy code mandates and the current economic conditions for the housing industry.

Safety

Apr 02, 2026

Call Before You Dig: 6 Key Steps to Prevent Utility Strikes on the Jobsite

April’s National Safe Digging Month is a timely reminder for builders, contractors and trade partners to prioritize one of the most critical and often overlooked jobsite safety practices: preventing utility strikes.

View all

Latest Economic News

Economics

Apr 03, 2026

Job Growth Rebounds in March

The U.S. labor market showed signs of a modest rebound in March following a weak February, as payroll employment increased and the unemployment rate edged down to 4.3%. Job growth was led by healthcare, construction, and transportation and warehousing.

Economics

Apr 02, 2026

Iran Conflict Reverses Decline in Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates, which dipped below 6% in February, climbed back up to end the month just under 6.4%. According to Freddie Mac, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.18% in March, 13 points (bps) higher than February. The average 15-year rate also increased by the same amount to 5.56%. Despite the recent increase, both rates remain lower than a year ago by 47 bps and 27 bps, respectively.

Economics

Apr 01, 2026

Consumer Confidence Climbs Despite Oil Price Surge

Consumer confidence in March rose to a three-month high as consumers’ improved view of current business and labor market conditions outweighed weaker future expectations.