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April, 2001, 15:30 GMT 16:30 UK Q&A: Why did the Fed cut rates
again?  The Federal Reserve, the US central bank, has decided to
cut interest rates for a fourth time this year. BBC News
Online's Steve Schifferes explains why the decision was taken
and what effect it will have.  Why has the Federal Reserve cut
rates again?  The US central bank has decided to act to reassure
markets, businesses, and consumers about the economy.  After
eight years of strong economic growth, the US economy began a
sharp slowdown in the last few months of 2000, which has been
reflected in a sell-off in the stock market.  Now, despite three
interest rate cuts, company profits are under severe pressure,
with growing evidence of corporate layoffs and a reduction in
company investment, especially