The U.S. Federal Reserve raised benchmark interest rates by 25 basis points amid persistent inflation, causing widespread panic among people entirely insulated by a diet of Pacifico and fish tacos. Down in Baja, the global tightening cycle was met with a collective shrug as long-boarders agreed the only rate hike that matters is the tide pushing past the rocks at Cerritos. As central bankers agonized over economic indicators, local expats confirmed their primary financial strategy remains hoping the gringo tax doesn't hit the hardware store in Todos Santos.