An increase in output typically leads to higher interest rates due to the relationship between demand and inflation. When output rises, it often indicates fuller utilization of production resources, which can result in low unemployment. If demand outpaces supply, it triggers inflation rather than increased production. To manage excessive demand and curb inflation, central banks, like the Federal Reserve, raise interest rates. Short-term interest rates are directly controlled by the Fed, while long-term rates are influenced by market participants who speculate on future short-term rates. Even if the Fed maintains low short-term rates amid rising GDP, long-term rates may still increase due to expectations of future rate hikes to combat inflation. This dynamic can steepen the yield curve, reflecting investor beliefs about the Fed's future monetary policy actions. The Fed uses open market operations, such as buying or selling Treasury bonds, to manage short-term rates effectively.