Does a negative interest rate mean? Why would a government intentionally have a negative interest rate (potential economic benefits)? If the interest rate was negative, why would savers (people or businesses) still put their money in banks or invest in government bonds? If the negative interest rate continued to decrease or lasted for a long period of time what would happen to the economy? How would having a very high interest rate for a long period of time impact our economy (consumer spending, loan availability, etc)? (answer short essay)