News that the economy added zero jobs in August raises the chances that the Federal Reserve will announce another round of stimulus when it meets in two weeks, Fed-watchers say, most likely by pushing down long-term interest rates.

Cheaper credit could give the economy a boost — and prompt more hiring — by encouraging more borrowing, so companies and consumers have more money to spend. But with interest rates already low, it isn’t certain how much this might help the economy, though proponents of more action by the Fed argue that this is better than not trying.

The central bank has already undertaken a spate of unprecedented measures to reinvigorate growth, including two large rounds of asset purchases. At its August meeting, many Fed policy makers expressed interest in engaging in further easing measures, but could not agree what to do.

This dismal job report may spur them to action.

“I just don’t think the Fed will sit idly as momentum fizzles in this recovery,” said Dana Saporta, a United States economist at Credit Suisse. “We fully expect some more action from the committee later this month.”