📝 Executive Summary
The Federal Reserve has held its policy rate steady in 2026 after three cuts in 2025, keeping the top 18-month CD at 4.35% APY from Marcus by Goldman Sachs. Savers can still lock annualized yields above 4% before the next policy move, but any resumption of easing would push deposit rates lower. Online banks and credit unions continue to set the best rates on shorter terms.