1345 ET - Investors and traders aren't the only ones on the edge of their seats to see how much, if at all, the Fed winds up cutting interest rates in the second half of 2025. Executives at elevator maker Otis cite potential rate cuts as a catalyst that could drive more business, if they materialize. Acme United, a producer of scissors, rulers and first-aid kits, tells analysts that a rate cut would help lower its interest expenses. Hope Bancorp, a lender based in Los Angeles, says that rate cuts could spur more loan growth and thereby increase net interest income. The companies' comments indicate some of the ways that, as most Fed officials say, the current 4.25% - 4.5% rate target remains restrictive. (matt.grossman@wsj.com; @mattgrossman)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

July 23, 2025 13:46 ET (17:46 GMT)

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