US Federal Reserve System raised interest rates on Wednesday, Reuters reports. Although this step was widely expected, it howeve, shows that US central bank eliminates measures it used to fight with 2007-2009 financial crisis and further economic downturn.

Interest rate was raised by quarter of percentage point to 1,75%-2,0%.

US Fed leader mentioned good condition of country’s economy that shows high level of employment and moderately low inflation.

Stable economic expansion motivated central bank raise interest rates seven times since the late 2015. Bank’s leaders also informed about two more hikes till the end of this year, which is faster than was planned before.

US Treasuries’ yields went up due to US Fed decision, stocks were traded slightly lower.

Bank estimates that US economy growth rate will be 2,8% this year. In 2019 it will be at 2,4%. Inflation rate this year will reach 2,1% and will stay at this level until 2020.

Current unemployment level is 3,8%. It is the lowest in 18 years. It will fall to 3,6% by the year end.