[hnnewguy]

>artificially low interest rates

Interest rates are set in agreement between borrowers and lenders, and hence are always artificial.

As far as optimality, the "best" rate is one as low as possible without causing inflation.

[smil]

Interest rates are set by central banks in order to cause and increase inflation.

[collyw]

I don't get any say on the interest rate my bank gives.

[honksillet]

Well, yes you do. You get to option to take the loan or not take the loan.

[collyw]

I was referring to savings.