The Federal Reserve announced that it will keep its benchmark overnight interest rate, a rate that guides rates on various consumer and business loans, at virtually zero (0-0.25%) for “an extended period.” Analysts believe this rate will carry into 2010.

President Obama also announced this week that unemployment rates will remain high for at least another year. While Fed chairman Ben Bernanke has said that the recession has ended, it is clear that unemployment will be one of the most important factors for a recovery.