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Definition

Zero Lower Bound (ZLB) on Nominal Interest Rates

The zero lower bound (ZLB) is the principle that nominal interest rates cannot be negative. If a central bank's policy rate were negative, individuals and firms would prefer to hold physical cash rather than deposit money in a bank, as they would be charged for doing so. This reality sets a floor of zero for the nominal policy rate. The ZLB becomes a major challenge during a deep recession because a policy rate of zero may be insufficient to achieve a real interest rate low enough—potentially even a negative one—to adequately stimulate spending and promote economic recovery.

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Updated 2026-01-15

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