.g. , loans ) . conversely , higher long-term rates received on assets generally are beneficial to earnings , particularly when the increase is not accompanied by rising short-term rates paid on liabilities . 2022 the impact of changes in the maturity of various assets , liabilities or off-balance sheet instruments as interest rates change . for example , if more borrowers than forecasted pay down higher rate loan balances when general interest rates are declining , earnings may decrease initially