The numbers: The leading economic index declined 0.8% in October and fell for the 19th month in a row, but the U.S. economy doesn’t appear any closer to a recession than when the losing streak began.
The numbers: The leading economic index declined 0.8% in October and fell for the 19th month in a row, but the U.S. economy doesn’t appear any closer to a recession than when the losing streak began.
There’s a consistent trend of inflation slowing down which brings a greater potential for the end of any rate hikes from the Federal Reserve, signaling a soft-landing for the economy which has been touted by Jerome Powell. With a soft landing, it does also signal a strong potential for the Federal Reserve to begin lowering rates in the coming future.
The week following the FOMC rate decision meetings are typically very light, with the two most influential releases being the […]
This week’s most significant data offered preliminary numbers for manufacturing and services PMI (Purchasing Managers Index). Both can serve as […]
This week featured the usual retail sales report which shows consumer demand and as well as an indicator of the […]
The previous week offered a blend of economic updates, covering a report on the jobs market and weekly changes in […]
Next week, the unemployment data is going to be released, as initial jobless numbers are going to come in. This is a key indicator because rising interest rates generally lead to more layoffs, which could jeopardize the Fed’s goal of a soft landing.
Last week’s economic reports included readings on U.S. housing markets, housing starts and building permits, and the scheduled post-meeting statement from the Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve. Data on sales of previously owned homes were released along with weekly reports on mortgage rates and jobless claims.
The current 30-year fixed mortgage rate hovers around 7.51 percent, one of the highest rates seen in two decades. This is an upward jump from August, where the rates averaged at 7.18 percent. This trend is impacting potential homeowners. Meanwhile, the 15-year fixed mortgage rate stands close to 6.51 percent, mirroring August’s average, which rounded off at 6.55 percent.
Last week’s scheduled economic reporting was limited due to the U.S. Labor Day holiday on Monday. The Federal Reserve released its Beige Book report and weekly readings on mortgage rates and jobless claims were also published.