VOA常速英语2008年-US Central Bank Chief Says Troubled Homeowners

By VOA News
04 March 2008
 

The head of the U.S. central bank says the current housing crisis in the United States demands a "vigorous response."

In a speech to a banking¹ group in Florida, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said foreclosures and late payments on mortgages are likely to continue rising "for a while longer."

He said the current banking industry-backed plan that has seen some lenders lowering interest rates or working out payment plans is a "step in the right direction."

Bernanke says it is in lenders' interest to do more to avoid the huge cost of foreclosures.  He says it is good for communities and the nation's economy to offer more help to more homeowners.

Recent declines in home values have made it difficult for troubled homeowners to solve their problems by refinancing or selling their properties.

1 banking   

n.银行业，银行学，金融业

参考例句：

• John is launching his son on a career in banking.约翰打算让儿子在银行界谋一个新职位。
• He possesses an extensive knowledge of banking.他具有广博的银行业务知识。