The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged to a five-year high even as the economy remains lackluster.  The Dow climbed 207 points to close at 13,539.  The increase is attributed to the Fed keeping rates will be kept “at exceptionally low levels” through at least mid year 2015.  In addition, the Fed said, “To support a stronger economic recovery and to help ensure that inflation, over time, is at the rate most consistent with its dual mandate, the Committee agreed today to increase policy accommodation by purchasing additional agency mortgage-backed securities at a pace of $40 billion per month”.  The promise of low rates should help stimulate the housing market.  Low rates will also help the overall economy as the Fed is concerned the lackluster economy could fall back in to recession without these measures.