What is the difference between the interest rate and discount rate, and how do they impact the overall cost of borrowing?

The interest rate is the percentage charged by a lender on a loan, while the discount rate is the rate at which the Federal Reserve lends money to banks. The interest rate directly affects the cost of borrowing for individuals and businesses, as it determines the amount of interest paid on the loan. The discount rate, on the other hand, influences the overall economy by affecting the cost of borrowing for banks, which can impact the availability of credit and interest rates for consumers.