Definition: LIBOR is the interest rate that banks charge each other for one-month, three-month, six-month and one-year loans. LIBOR is an acronym for London InterBank Offered Rate. This rate is that which is charged by London banks, and is then published and used as the benchmark for banks rates all over the world.
LIBOR is compiled by the British Bankers Association (BBA), and is published 11 am each day in conjunction with Reuters. It is comprised from a panel of banks representing countries in each currency.
LIBOR is also used to guides banks in setting rates for adjustable-rate loan, including interest-only mortgages and credit card debt. Lenders typically add a point or two, which is their margin.
