Effects

• When the economy is in a downturn, the LIBOR is lowered, which makes the interest rates for variable rate loans decrease. This makes borrowing money cheaper. More lending takes place, which gives a boost to the economy.
  
  

Significance

• The LIBOR can also be increased in response to certain market conditions. When this happens, anyone with an adjustable rate mortgage loan tied to the LIBOR is at risk. The payment could increase. When someone's payment increases, his budget is affected. He may not be able to pay a larger payment.
  
  

Warning

• If your mortgage is past due, the lender will foreclose on your property if you don't bring it up to date. This can have a damaging effect on your credit file.
  
  

Considerations

• The LIBOR is the rate that banks use when they loan money to other banks throughout the world. When the LIBOR increases, banks will stop borrowing funds from each other. This creates a shortage of funds and could slow down economic activity.
  
  

Potential

• When you have an adjustable rate mortgage tied to the LIBOR, it can become very difficult to budget and plan for the future knowing that your payment can go up.