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Interest rates play a crucial role in financial decisions, primarily by influencing borrowing costs and the valuation of investments. When interest rates are low, borrowing becomes cheaper, encouraging businesses and consumers to take out loans for various purposes such as buying homes, investing in new projects, or expanding their operations. This can lead to increased spending and economic growth.

On the investment side, interest rates significantly affect the present value of future cash flows, which is a key consideration for investors. For instance, if interest rates rise, the present value of cash flows from investments decreases, potentially leading investors to reassess the attractiveness of certain assets. Higher rates may make fixed-income products more appealing compared to equities, impacting stock prices and overall market valuations.

The correct choice highlights how critical interest rates are to the financial landscape, influencing both the cost of borrowing and the decisions investors make based on the expected return on their investments relative to the prevailing rates.