> They kept interest rates abnormally low for much of the last decade which meant that borrowing was incredibly cheap causing many consumers to overextend thems

> They kept interest rates abnormally low for much of the last decade which meant that borrowing was incredibly cheap causing many consumers to overextend themselves The federal reserve manages the cash rate. The don't directly specify the risk premium spread associated with risky loans. If someone offers a no-recourse billion dollar loan with no obligation for collateral, the rational financial decision is to take the loan, and invest the money. If the investment appreciates pocket the money. If it goes south return the investment and say "your problem" to the lender. The federal reserve said they thought self interest would ensure the banks would not invest stupidly. I don't see how this argument changes if overnight rate is 10% or 1%.