The bank interest rates are 'manipulated' (by government) to reduced (national) debt burden (ie interests that taxpayers have to pay when government borrows money to do public works). Bank depositors get little benefits/joy from this. Loan(sharks) shops can make more money by borrowing at low rates (3-4%) and lend out at higher rate 8-25%). Credit cards (AmEx, Master, ...charge 16%+).

Smile! No debt is already the best policy for people. But when will governments learn?