The average mortgage rate in the U.S. just hit 7.09%—its highest level in more than two decades. And that's having ripple effects in the wider economy. Some homeowners feel locked in, tethered to their super low interest rates and unable to find something better. Today on the show, what happens when homeowners are locked in by low rates? For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at <a href="http://plus.npr.org/">plus.npr.org</a>. Music by <a href="https://dropelectric.bandcamp.com/">Drop Electric</a>. Find us: <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@planetmoney">TikTok</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/planetmoney/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/planetmoney">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.npr.org/newsletter/money">Newsletter</a>. Learn more about sponsor message choices: <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a> <a href="https://www.npr.org/about-npr/179878450/privacy-policy">NPR Privacy Policy</a>

Metals, government debt, and a climate lawsuit

A bite-sized show about big ideas. From the people who make Planet Money, The Indicator helps you make sense of what's happening in today's economy. It's a quick hit of insight into money, work, and business. Monday through Friday, in 10 minutes or less.