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GCA Forums News For Saturday, May 2, 2026: Weekend Edition

Sunday, May 3, 2026 GCA Forums News: mortgage rates, housing affordability, inflation, jobs, stocks, metals, fraud, and political headlines.

GCA Forums Weekend News: Mortgage Rates, Housing Pain, Market Madness, and Political Shockwaves For Sunday, May 3, 2026

GCA Forums News Lead: America Is Watching The Numbers, But Families Are Feeling The Pain

On Sunday, May 3, 2026, the U.S. economy presents a notable divergence. While Wall Street experiences a tech-driven rebound and precious metals maintain strong demand, mortgage rates persist in the low 6% range. Housing affordability remains a significant financial challenge for many Americans.

For homebuyers, renters, veterans, first-time buyers, self-employed borrowers, and families with limited financial flexibility, the main concern goes beyond rates, charts, or government reports.

Housing remains prohibitively expensive. Essential goods like groceries continue to rise in cost. Monthly payments are burdensome, and many qualified borrowers are denied by lenders due to extra underwriting requirements.

GCA Forums News, powered by Gustan Cho Associates, is tracking the national mortgage, housing, economic, political, and consumer finance headlines that matter most today.

Mortgage Rates Today: Buyers Are Still Stuck In The Low-6% Trap30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Are Holding Near 6.2%

Mortgage rates remain a major force freezing the housing market. As of Sunday, May 3, 2026, Yahoo Finance reported Zillow’s lender marketplace average 30-year fixed mortgage rate at 6.20%, the 20-year fixed at 6.01%, and the 15-year fixed at 5.66%. NerdWallet reported the average 30-year fixed APR at 6.18% Sunday afternoon, with the 15-year fixed at 5.69% and the 5-year ARM at 6.35%.

The Mortgage Market Is Better Than 2025, But Still Painful

Freddie Mac’s weekly benchmark showed the average long-term U.S. mortgage rate rising to 6.30%, ending a three-week slide. This is below the 6.76% level from one year earlier but still high enough to keep many buyers on the sidelines.

For GCA Forums readers, market conditions remain challenging. Borrowers with high income, verified assets, and suitable loan programs may still qualify.

However, those with credit issues, recent late payments, high debt-to-income ratios, self-employment income, or prior bankruptcy often need lenders familiar with agency guidelines, automated underwriting system (AUS) findings, manual underwriting, and no-overlay lending.

Rability Crisis: Home Prices Are Not Falling Fast Enough

Existing-Home Sales Are Weak, But Prices Remain High

The National Association of REALTORS® reported that March 2026 existing-home sales fell 3.6% month over month. The median existing-home sales price was $408,800, up 1.4% from one year earlier, while inventory stood at 4.1 months.

This situation challenges buyers: although sales volume is low, home prices have not dropped significantly. Many families expect price reductions that may not happen in their local markets.

Relief, But Sellers Are Still Holding The Line

Realtor.com reported that April 2026 saw more realistic pricing, with home prices declining for the sixth consecutive month and 16.7% of listings having price reductions. Despite these changes, affordability remains limited due to high mortgage rates and financial strain on many households.

The Real Buyer Question: Can You Qualify, Not Just Can You Find A House?

In today’s market, fIn today’s market, finding a home is only half the battle. The bigger question is whether the borrower can get approved. Lender overlays matter here. One lender may deny a borrower even when FHA, VA, USDA, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or non-QM guidelines allow the file. Forums News advises readers not to interpret a single mortgage denial as a definitive barrier to homeownership.

Inflation Watch: The Cost Of Living Is Still A National Emergency For Working Families

March CPI Came In Hotter Than Families Wanted

The latest Consumer Price Index report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed inflation rose 3.3% over the 12 months ending March 2026. Core CPI, which excludes food and energy, rose 2.6% year over year. Energy prices were up 12.5% over the year, while food rose 2.7%.

The Next CPI Report Could Move Mortgage Rates Again

ThThe April 2026 CPI report is scheduled for release on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. This report matters because inflation can move bond yields and mortgage-backed securities. For borrowers, inflation affects daily expenses like groceries, fuel, utilities, insurance, rent, savings, credit card balances, and the monthly mortgage payment they may qualify for. Jobs And Unemployment: The Labor Market Looks Stable, But Families Feel Fragile

Unemployment Was 4.3% In March.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 178,000 in March 2026, while the unemployment rate stayed at 4.3%. A stable job market supports mortgage loan qualification; however, the headline unemployment rate does not capture the full economic picture. Many Americans still face higher living costs, insurance premiums, credit card debt, auto loans, medical expenses, and rising rent. Over time, based on optimism. They approve based on documented income, credit history, assets, liabilities, debt-to-income ratio, and automated underwriting findings.

Stock Market Watch: Wall Street Rallies While Main Street Struggles

Tech Stocks Rebounded In April

The stock market had a strong April, with U.S. stock mutual funds and ETFs rebounding sharply due to big tech names. The Wall Street Journal reported that the average total return for U.S. stock funds was 10.3% in April, the best monthly performance since 2020.

SPY And QQQ Closed Stronger Before The Weekend

As of the latest available market data before Sunday, SPY traded at $720.65, and QQQ traded at $674.15. QQQ was up 0.96% from the previous close, while SPY was nearly flat.

Why Many Americans Think The Market Feels Inflated

Despite gains in the stock market, many working families do not see financial benefits because limited stock ownership restricts their participation. Their main economic concerns remain expenses like rent, food, fuel, insurance, child care, and car payments. This disparity highlights the importance of GCA Forums News covering both financial markets and the economic realities households face.

Remain The Fear TradeGold And Silver Stay In Focus As Investors Watch Inflation And Geopolitics

Precious metals remain a major story because inflation, global conflict, currency worries, and central bank behavior continue to drive investor interest. Kitco reported that World Bank analysts see gold and silver prices capped near current levels through 2026 despite market volatility.

GLD And SLV Show Strong Precious Metals Demand

Before the weekend, SPDR Gold Shares traded at $423.18, while iShares Silver Trust traded at $68.29. SLV rose 2.46% from the previous close, showing silver’s continued momentum.

Silver Is Still Getting Attention

Silver demand is being supported by investment interest and industrial use, including electronics and solar-related demand. Recent coverage also noted heavy silver imports in Gujarat, showing how global demand remains strong even at elevated prices.

Real Estate Market Reality: More Inventory Does Not Mean Easy Affordability

Inventory Is Improving, But Monthly Payments Still Hurt

More listings can help buyers, but inventory alone does not solve affordability. Buyers still have to qualify for the payment. High home prices, mortgage rates above 6%, taxes, homeowners’ insurance, HOA dues, mortgage insurance, and closing costs can quickly push a borrower over the limit.

Hardest Battle

First-time buyers are squeezed by rent, student loans, credit card debt, auto payments, thin savings, and rising down payment requirements in expensive markets. Even with income, a single credit event or lender overlay can derail the loan. this context. GCA Forums should continue to position itself as a leading national resource for consumers seeking to understand the mortgage approval process.

Mortgage Lending Market: The Industry Is Depressed, But Opportunity Still Exists

The Easy Mortgage Market Is Gone

The mortgage lending industry is still not back to the refinance boom days. Purchase volume remains competitive. Rate-sensitive buyers are cautious. Many lenders are tightening standards, adding overlays, cutting staff, or focusing only on easy files. Tough Files

Gustan Cho Associates can distinguish it. Gustan Cho Associates can stand out by providing borrowers with appropriate lending solutions. Most borrowers need a lender, a loan program, and an underwriting team that follows established guidelines without unnecessary extra requirements.

Denied By One Lender Does Not Mean Denied By All Lenders

President Trump Was Not Assassinated: The Latest Is An Alleged Attempted Assassination Investigation

For accuracy, GCA Forums should not publish that President Trump was assassinated. The current reported story is an alleged attempted assassination at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on April 25, 2026. The FBI posted an official update noting that FBI Director Kash Patel spoke after charges were filed against a suspect accused of trying to assassinate the president.

Federal Authorities Say A Secret Service Officer Was Wounded

Reuters reported that U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said evidence showed a Secret Service officer was wounded by a shotgun blast during the alleged attempted assassination. Reuters identified the defendant as Cole Tomas Allen and reported that he faces serious federal charges.

This Is A Major National Security Story

This story requires careful handling due to its widespread attention and political sensitivity. GCA Forums should rely exclusively on verified facts, official charging documents, and reputable reporting sources. Speculation regarding motive should be avoided until prosecutors and investigators provide additional confirmed information.

Pam Bondi Update: Former Attorney General Faces Epstein Files Pressure

Pam Bondi Was Replaced As Attorney General

Pam Bondi is no longer the U.S. attorney general. The Associated Press reported in early April that President Trump replaced Bondi, with Todd Blanche becoming the new leader of the Justice Department.

Bondi Is Also Facing House Oversight Pressure Over Epstein Files

The Guardian reported that Bondi was expected to appear before the House Oversight Committee regarding the Epstein files after Democrats filed a civil contempt resolution over her earlier failure to appear for a deposition.

Editorial Guidance:

The term “disgraced” should not be used to describe Pam Bondi in the article body unless it is attributed to a sourced public figure or clearly presented as opinion. A more effective and legally prudent headline would be:eadline would be:

Pam Bondi Under Fire As Epstein Files Fight Returns To Washington

This approach maintains a compelling narrative while minimizing potential legal risk.

FBI Director Kash Patel Update: Bureau Shakeup, Lawsuit, And Public Scrutiny

Kash Patel Says The FBI Has Undergone A Major Overhaul

Fox News reported Sunday that FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau has undergone a “generational” overhaul, including cutting bureaucracy and moving more than 1,000 agents into field offices.

Patel Is Also Fighting Media Allegations

Reuters reported that Patel sued The Atlantic over reporting about alleged drinking and absences, seeking $250 million in damages and denying the allegations.

GCA Forums Framing

A safe, compelling GCA Forums headline would be:

Kash Patel Battles Media Firestorm While FBI Faces This headline is both engaging and preferable to repeating unsubstantiated allegations as fact.

Erika Kirk Update: Viral Outrage, Political Violence, And Media Backlash

Erika Kirk Remains A Polarizing Political Figure

Erika Kirk, CEO of Turning Point USA, has remained in the news following the White House Correspondents’ Dinner incident. Sinclair-affiliated coverage reported that Kirk said America had become “unrecognizable” after the chaos surrounding the event.

Candace Owens Thumbnail Controversy Adds More Viral Fuel

The Times of India reported that Candace Owens quietly edited a controversial AI-generated thumbnail involving Erika Kirk after online outrage.

Editorial Guidance For GCA Forums

The phrase “the most unlikeable person in the nation” should not be used to describe Erika Kirk in the news report, as it constitutes opinion and may undermine credibility. A more effective and responsible headline would be:

Erika Kirk Sparks Another Viral Firestorm As Political Media Turns Ugly

This strategy preserves a dynamic headline while avoiding personal attacks.

Fraud Watch: DOJ Expands Fraud Enforcement

DOJ Is Announcing More Fraud Enforcement Actions

The Department of Justice reported that its National Fraud Enforcement Division continued fraud enforcement actions this week as part of a broader effort to fight fraud and protect taxpayers.

Health Fraud Strike Force Expands On The West Coast

The Wall Street Journal reported that the DOJ launched a new West Coast health-fraud strike force focused on California, Nevada, and Arizona, targeting Medicare and Medicaid fraud schemes.

Mortgage And Financial Fraud Remain Hot-Button Issues

FHFA-OIG’s 2026 press releases include fraud-related actions involving bank fraud, loan fraud, and mortgage loan fraud. Coverage for GCA Forums readers should consistently emphasize consumer protection. Issues like falsified documents, misrepresentation of occupancy, straw buyers, inflated income, forged bank statements, wire fraud, title fraud, and predatory lending schemes can have severe financial consequences for families.

GCA Forums Mortgage Consumer Alert: Do Not Fake Documents To Get Approved

Mortgage Fraud. Borrowers are strongly advised against using falsified pay stubs, bank statements, W-2s, rental histories, gift funds, occupancy statements, or employment documents. Engaging in mortgage fraud is not a viable solution and may result in loan denial, foreclosure, criminal charges, and lasting financial damage.

The Right Strategy Is A Legal Mortgage Strategy

Legal mortgage solutions exist for borrowers facing credit challenges, prior bankruptcy, foreclosure, charge-offs, collections, high debt-to-income ratios, self-employment income, or recent late payments. The appropriate approach is to align borrowers with suitable mortgage programs rather than resorting to fraudulent practices.

What This Means For Homebuyers This Week

Buyers Should Get Fully Underwritten Before Shopping

In the current market, insufficient pre-approval poses significant risks. Buyers should fully understand their approval status before making offers, including documented income, credit evaluation, asset verification, automated underwriting system (AUS) findings, and lender overlay assessment.

Sellers Should Price Homes Realistically

Automatic bidding wars have diminished in many markets. Buyers are more sensitive to payment amounts, and sellers who overprice properties may face longer listing periods, price reductions, and reduced market momentum.s Need Strong Lending Partners

Realtors require lending partners who can address complex issues, communicate efficiently, and successfully close challenging transactions. In a market characterized by reduced transaction volume, the lender’s role is critical to the success of each deal.

GCA Forums News Viral Angle: Why This Weekend Report Matters

The public is monitoring not only mortgage rates but also broader indicators of financial stability and household survival.

Families want to know:

• Can I afford a home?
• Can I refinance?
• Can I buy after bankruptcy?
• Can I qualify with bad credit?
• Can I escape rent?
• Can I trust the economy?
• Can I believe the news?
• Can I protect my money?

For these reasons, GCA Forums News is positioned to serve as a national mortgage news network. Its effective approach combines mortgage education, coverage of national headlines, analysis of consumer challenges, political accountability, fraud alerts, and practical solutions.

FAQs For GCA Forums News: Sunday, May 3, 2026What Are Mortgage Rates Today, Sunday, May 3, 2026?

• Mortgage rates are still generally in the low 6% range. Reports on May 3, 2026, showed average 30-year fixed mortgage rates around 6.18% to 6.20%, depending on the source and loan scenario.
• Borrowers should remember that actual rates depend on credit score, down payment, loan type, points, occupancy, property type, and lender pricing.

Is The Housing Market Crashing In 2026?

• The national housing market is weak, but it is not a simple crash everywhere. Existing-home sales fell in March 2026, but the national median existing-home price still rose year over year to $408,800.
• Some markets are cooling faster than others, especially where affordability is stretched.

Why Are Homes Still Unaffordable If Inventory Is Improving?

• Inventory helps, but monthly payments are still high because home prices remain elevated and mortgage rates are still above 6% for many borrowers.
• Taxes, insurance, HOA dues, mortgage insurance, and consumer debt also affect affordability.

Can I Still Get A Mortgage With Bad Credit In 2026?

• Yes, some borrowers can still qualify with bad credit, but it depends on the full file.
• Credit score, credit history, debt-to-income ratio, income stability, assets, loan program, AUS findings, and lender overlays all matter.
• One lender denial does not always mean you cannot qualify elsewhere.

What Is The Biggest Mortgage Mistake Borrowers Make Today?

• The biggest mistake is assuming every lender follows the same rules.
• Many lenders add overlays that are stricter than FHA, VA, USDA, conventional, or non-QM guidelines.
• Borrowers should work with a lender that understands agency guidelines and the challenges of difficult mortgage approvals.

Was President Trump Assassinated?

• No. The current reported story is an alleged attempted assassination at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on April 25, 2026.
• Federal authorities have charged a suspect, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Should GCA Forums Cover Politics In A Mortgage News Report?

• Yes, but carefully.
• Politics affects inflation, interest rates, housing policy, taxes, regulation, DOJ enforcement, consumer confidence, and the economy.
• GCA Forums should cover political news factually, with strong headlines but without unsupported personal attacks.

GCA Forums News serves homebuyers, homeowners, renters, real estate professionals, mortgage loan officers, veterans, investors, and consumers seeking unbiased news. For further information on mortgage education, housing news, and lending solutions for non-traditional borrowers, visit http://www.gcaforums.com and http://www.gustancho.com

• This discussion was modified 1 week, 1 day ago by  Gustan Cho.

Are there corrupt cops? How could that be when the recruitment and hiring process of police officers include a thorough assessment of the police applicant’s background. Background investigation includes interviews of former and current employers, co-workers, supervisors, neighbors, classmates, and teachers. Background investigators of police officer recruits will check the candidates credit and employment backgrounds, criminal arrests and convictions, public records, and medical and psychological history records. Many law enforcement agencies will conduct written psychological examinations as well as an oral interview with a board certified psychologist. Other police agencies will have polygraph examinations as part of the background investigation process. Like many other professions, there are bad apples in law enforcement. Here are some videos of corrupt police officers caught on tape.

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When Evil Cops Got Caught Red Handed | Mr. Nightmare | When Evil Cops Got Caught Red Handed | Mr. Nightmare #cops #police #thinblueline #lawenforcement #policeofficer #UK #usa | By BlackRoastFacebook

When Evil Cops Got Caught Red Handed | Mr. Nightmare #cops #police #thinblueline #lawenforcement #policeofficer #UK #usa

GCA Forums News For Wednesday, April 15, 2026

President Trump’s ceasefire with Iran has caused oil prices and mortgage rates to rise, leading to criticism from both political parties over recent economic and foreign policy decisions. At the same time, special election changes, the worsening housing crisis, Illinois’s budget problems, and the Erika Kirk controversy are making news. GCA Forums News by Gustan Cho Associates brings you the latest updates in finance, mortgages, and politics.

National Daily News Report for April 15, 2026:

President Trump’s Ceasefire With Iran Has Shaken Markets, Increased Political Opposition, And Raised Concerns About The Housing Crisis.

Stay Updated With GCA Forums News and Gustan Cho Associates.

GCA Forums News for April 15, 2026, comes to you from Gustan Cho Associates. Dive into daily updates on breaking news, mortgage trends, and political shifts shaping your finances, housing, and future plans. Join the conversation and connect with others on GC Forums.

President Trump’s two-week ceasefire with Iran caused financial markets to react strongly, reopening after months of closure as oil prices rose and mortgage rates changed.

WTI Crude Oil reached nearly $92 per barrel, while Brent Crude approached $95. Experts say the uncertainty of the ceasefire and Trump’s threats to close the important Strait of Hormuz are the main reasons.

Investors Rush Into Gold and Silver, Pushing Silver Above $80 an Ounce.

Investors rushed to buy gold and silver, pushing gold prices up to almost $4,820 per ounce and silver to $80. The claim generally aligns with recent market reports, though the language may overstate the situation. Silver traded above $80 per ounce in early 2026. According to Reuters, silver nearly reached $99.34, while another report placed it at approximately $81 on February 10, 2026. Both gold and silver gained popularity as safe-haven investments during periods of geopolitical and economic uncertainty, and increased retail investor activity contributed to higher prices.

Summary of Market Reports

Silver surpassed $80 per ounce following a significant rally in late 2025 and early 2026. Reuters reported prices exceeding $98 after a record near $99.34, while earlier accounts placed silver at approximately $81 per ounce. In December 2025, another report indicated that silver reached $83.62, demonstrating that $80 had already served as a key breakout level before further price increases.

Factors Influencing Price Movement

News reports identified several primary drivers for the price increase, including heightened safe-haven demand, geopolitical tensions, concerns regarding the U.S. dollar, and robust interest in hard assets. Additionally, some sources cited increased industrial demand and supply shortages, particularly for silver, as further supporting factors.

Trump Appears to Call Vance Incompetent in Rambling Cabinet Meeting Remark

Trump seemed to call JD Vance “incompetent” during a televised Cabinet meeting, according to several reports. The comments were unclear, but news coverage suggested they were about Vance because Trump said “my man” when talking about a debate opponent and then said both were “incompetent.”

What Happened

Reporters said Trump was answering a question about a Minnesota fraud scandal when he began talking about Tim Walz and the 2024 vice-presidential debate. During his comments, he called “the man” “grossly incompetent” and said both “my man” and “his man” were incompetent.

Why It Mattered

This wording was important because Vance was Trump’s running mate in that debate, making the remark seem like a criticism of his own vice president. Some reports also said Trump seemed to mix up his comments, referring to Kamala Harris, which made things even less clear.

To try to resolve the deadlock, Trump sent Vice President JD Vance to Iran for long negotiations. Reports say Vance tried to contact Trump a dozen times during a tough 21-hour meeting that ended without agreement.

People close to the White House say Trump called Vance “incompetent” and complained that “nothing absolutely happened.” On TV, President Trump showed confidence in managing the Iran crisis but seemed to underestimate Iran’s diplomatic skills.

He repeated his readiness to close the Strait of Hormuz if needed, a stance criticized by both major political parties.

Political Opinions Are Shifting As Democrats, Independents, and Republicans All Speak Out More Against President Trump’s Handling Of The Iran Conflict, Economic Troubles, Rising Inflation, And Negative Outlooks

The Iran conflict is very unpopular, with polls showing 90% of Americans oppose it. President Trump’s disapproval ratings are rising as criticism comes from both parties and top journalists. From both parties, he is watching his popularity plummet as doubts about his qualifications mount. In a controversial move, he ousted the Military Chief of Staff, a decision critics are calling a desperate reaction.

After Noem and Bondi left, rumors say Stephen Miller and Kash Patel might be next. Hegseth confirmed the earlier firings, increasing expectations of more changes.

Bondi’s Comeback

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi has returned to public attention and now faces possible revocation. Former Attorney General Pam Bondi is back in the spotlight, now facing the threat of losing her law license after skipping testimony and being sanctioned by a committee.

Kristi Noem

Criticism of her competence is mounting, with a criminal complaint filed and sensational reports about her husband, Byron Noem, drawing even more scrutiny to the Noem family.

Negative Development of Erika Kirk

Negative developments may arise for Erika Kirk, who faces backlash after a modified video by comedian Druski circulated online. Kirk is reportedly pursuing legal action against Druski and has expressed dissatisfaction with Charlie Kirk’s family and other critics. Journalists, including Candace Owen, have questioned her association with Charlie Kirk’s situation. Erika Kirk has been the target of an extended smear campaign, with recent video evidence intensifying the controversy and damaging public perception of her honesty.

Illinois and California Budget Deficits

Meanwhile, Illinois and California face significant fiscal challenges and have adopted aggressive measures to address budget deficits.

Exodus From Blue States

High-tax states like New York, Illinois, Washington, and New Jersey are seeing an exodus of ultra-wealthy families and large industries. Illinois faces the nation’s largest pension debt crisis, totaling several billion dollars. Governor JB Pritzker is reportedly downplaying the severity amid speculation about a possible 2028 presidential run.

Recent special election results have changed the outlook for the upcoming midterms. Democrats made important gains, especially in the April 7 races, increasing their momentum for the next election cycle.

What’s New With Bitcoin? Crypto Jumps With Iranian Ceasefire

After the Iranian ceasefire, optimism is growing in the Bitcoin market. As of April 15, 2026, Bitcoin is trading between $74,000 and $75,000, reaching highs near $76,000, driven by hopes for stability. The crypto market is now worth $2.6 trillion. Experts say Bitcoin’s rise is due to the ceasefire and Strait of Hormuz news, as investors turn to it as a safe place during market chaos.

Live Updates on Stocks, Bonds, Housing, and Mortgage Markets Show That Real Estate Is Stuck In A Slump

Continued trouble in Iran and growing market uncertainty are causing big ups and downs in stocks, leading to sharp drops in just a few days.

Indicators from the stock, bond, housing, and mortgage markets suggest persistent sluggishness in the real estate sector.

While the stock, bond, housing, and mortgage markets signal mixed signals, the overall trend points to ongoing stagnation in real estate. High mortgage rates, affordability challenges, and buyer caution are limiting home sales, while sellers remain hesitant to lower prices. Continued volatility in equity and bond markets adds uncertainty and discourages buyers. As a result, the housing sector is not collapsing but continues to face obstacles to sustained growth.

Housing and Mortgage Crisis 2007 vs Now?

The real estate and mortgage markets are under significant pressure. Home prices are dropping in many states due to high costs, low supply, and weak buyer demand. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate stays between 6.31% and 6.40%. Some experts warn that this housing crisis could be worse than the one in 2007.

President Trump is expected to remove Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell in May, with many expecting his replacement to act quickly, possibly cutting interest rates.

Economy, Inflation, CPI, Unemployment, and Tariffs

American families and businesses are struggling with rising inflation, poor economic outlooks, and the impact of tariffs. As older companies struggle, new ones are starting to meet changing needs. Rising consumer prices and unemployment rates make the problems worse.

Automotive News: EVs Losing Market Share

Electric vehicle (EV) customers are growing frustrated, pointing to short driving ranges, few charging stations, and high prices as reasons for losing interest in the market.

Other News of Interest to GCA Forum Members and Viewers

As economic uncertainty increases, being watchful for crime, fraud, and scams—especially in mortgages—is more important than ever.

Gustan Cho Associates warns that interest rates may rise and mortgage options may become limited, so locking in rates and reviewing your options now is smart.

What’s your take on the Iran ceasefire, market swings, and the housing slump? Join the conversation in the GCA Forums comments and help our community grow by sharing this report on social media. Your viewership and support keep GCA Forums News thriving.

GCA Forums News, in partnership with Gustan Cho Associates, will continue to provide daily updates on stories that impact personal finances, housing, and future planning.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bULGucPUoio

March 18, 2026 Market News: Stock Market Crash, Silver Plunge, Mortgage Rates, Housing Outlook, and U.S. Economic Update

The thoroughly fact-checked market and housing report for March 18, 2026, draws on the most up-to-date, verified information. Earlier political and city budget claims that did not match credible sources have now been corrected.

Wednesday, March 18, 2026: U.S. Market, Mortgage, Housing, and National News Report

The Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged and sounded more cautious about raising them in the future. Rising tensions in the Middle East have pushed oil prices up.

Why the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq Fell Today

• Major stock indexes fell: the S&P 500 dropped 1.4% to 6,624.70.
• The Dow Jones fell 768.11 points to 46,225.15.
• The Nasdaq lost 327.11 points to 22,152.42.

How the Federal Reserve and Inflation Pressured Stocks

• The Fed’s decision, along with its warning that inflation remains a problem, pushed Treasury yields higher and changed investors’ expectations.

Why Geopolitical Risk and Oil Prices Shook Capital Markets

• The market is now dealing with a mix of Fed policy, rising oil prices, stubborn inflation, and global uncertainty.
• Reuters said that February producer prices rose 0.7% from January and 3.4% year over year, both above expectations.
• The conflict with Iran is adding to economic risks, as higher oil prices make transportation and manufacturing more expensive, increase consumer prices, and push bond yields up.

Silver Prices Crash to Near $75 an Ounce

• Silver prices have dropped sharply.
• While the move toward $75 is correct, there is no solid proof that ‘big banks manipulated silver today.’
• The most likely reasons are a stronger U.S. dollar, higher yields after the Fed’s decision, a less friendly Fed outlook, and heavy selling of risky investments and commodities due to inflation and global shocks.

Is the Iran War Causing Silver Volatility

• The Iran conflict has caused more ups and downs in the market, but not in the usual way.
• Instead of pushing investors to buy safe metals, it has pushed oil prices and inflation higher, strengthening the dollar and Treasury yields.
• Because of this, gold and silver are not as attractive as safe investments right now.

Stronger Dollar, Higher Yields, and Forced Selling in Precious Metals

• Reuters cited a stronger dollar, the Fed’s steady rate decision, and ongoing uncertainty over Iran as the main reasons for today’s drop in metals prices.
• There is no reliable public source providing real-time data on who holds short positions in securities.
• The main public source for this data is the CFTC Commitments of Traders reports, with the latest detailed data from March 10, 2026.
• These reports are delayed, not real-time.
• So, any claims about knowing today’s ‘live short position’ from public data are not true.

Why Silver Is Plummeting Today

• The big drop in silver prices is best explained by higher expected interest rates, a stronger dollar, rising yields, and forced selling as investors react to inflation and global worries.
• Although the Iran conflict likely made the market more volatile, there is no clear evidence that today’s drop was caused by manipulation by major players.

How Interest Rates and the U.S. Dollar Impact Precious Metals

• The Fed kept its main interest rate the same and suggested there might be one cut this year.
• However, the careful wording of its statement led markets to expect borrowing to become more expensive.

How Bond Market Volatility Impacts Mortgage Rates and Lending

• According to Reuters, hopes for rate cuts have faded quickly, and at least one Fed official now expects a rate increase next year.
• This change in outlook explains much of today’s big swings in stocks, bonds, and metals.
• It can also push up oil prices, shipping costs, and inflation expectations.

Interest Rates, Treasury Yields, and Capital Market Volatility

• When inflation expectations rise, bond investors demand higher yields.
• Mortgage rates tend to climb alongside the 10-year Treasury.
• Stocks often fall; and the dollar strengthens as global money seeks safety.
• Today’s trading fits this familiar pattern.

Mortgages and The Mortgage Market

• Freddie Mac’s weekly survey remains the primary benchmark for mortgage rates.
• For the week ending March 12, the 30-year fixed averaged 6.11%, and the 15-year averaged 5.50%.
• Daily retail trackers are slightly higher; a March 18 roundup showed about 6.33% for a 30-year fixed and 5.66% for a 15-year.
• The difference is because daily aggregators and the Freddie Mac survey measure different aspects of the market.

What Causes Interest Rates to Rise During War and Inflation Fears

• Climbing rates and ongoing uncertainty have cooled mortgage demand.

Weekly Mortgage Application Data and What It Signals

• For the week ending March 18, the MBA reported that mortgage applications dropped 10.9%.
• This shows that affordability remains a major hurdle, and borrowers remain highly sensitive to rate shifts.

The Wider Mortgage Market Is Sending Mixed Signals

• Policy moves have tried to lower borrowing costs, and policy changes have tried to lower borrowing costs and make lending easier, but both Reuters and Fed reports say that a lack of homes for sale is the bigger, tougher problem.
• There is a little optimism, but not much.

Mortgage Rates Today and the Latest Mortgage Industry News

• Mortgage rates have fallen significantly from their 2023 highs, builder confidence rose a bit in March, and some policies aim to address ongoing problems.
• Still, concerns remain: affordable housing is hard to find, oil use is up, high yields keep mortgage rates high, and money pressures continue.

Home Prices, Housing Starts, and Builder Sentiment Update

• Single-family permits fell 0.9% for the month and 11.6% year over year.
• Builder confidence rose to 38 in March, but since it is below 50, most builders still think the industry is struggling.

Does the Housing Market Look Optimistic in 2026

• The latest Reuters poll predicts home prices will rise 1.8%, with 30-year mortgage rates remaining at 6% in the near term.
• So, while the 2026 housing and mortgage markets are still busy, the mood is mostly negative.

Why Mortgage Rates Remain Elevated

• Progress will likely be slow, with affordability problems and sensitivity to inflation and world events still weighing on the outlook.
• Data show the economy is cooling in some spots but holding steady overall.

Current Inflation Data and What It Means for Consumers

• In February, consumer inflation ran at 2.4% year over year, with core CPI at 2.5%.
• Producer inflation was hotter at 3.4%, nudging the Fed toward a more hawkish stance.

Unemployment Trends and the 2026 Labor Market Outlook

• Unemployment stood at 4.4%, with payrolls shrinking by 92,000.
• In January, about 7 million job openings were available.
• A soft yet stable labor market can still support home demand, but stubborn inflation keeps the Fed from cutting rates enough to spark a big mortgage-rate rally.

Kristi Noem Investigation

• In the Kristi Noem case, confirmed reporting has brought scrutiny to a controversial $200 million DHS advertising campaign.
• Questions have arisen about the contract award process, potential involvement of politically connected firms, and whether legislators were misled under oath.

Latest News on the Kristi Noem Investigation

• Axios reported bipartisan concerns about the advertising campaign and the alleged involvement of a firm connected to Noem.
• The New York Post reported that prominent Democrats submitted a criminal referral accusing Noem of perjury, though this is a political and legal development, not evidence of a crime.
• Earlier this month, Reuters confirmed Noem faced significant criticism during a Senate hearing on her immigration policy.
• In summary, Kristi Noem faces legal and political scrutiny over her DHS decisions, particularly regarding contracts and testimony.
• No reports confirming wrongdoing have been identified in the available research.

Fraud Cases in Minnesota and Other States

• Minnesota remains a major focus for fraud investigations due to the extensive Feeding Our Future scandal.
• Department of Justice updates show the case is expanding, and Reuters has described it as a significant social welfare fraud case.
• Other fraud schemes also remain a focus of federal efforts in Minnesota.
• No evidence was found of simultaneous fraud revelations in Minnesota and other states on the same day.

How Immigration Enforcement and ICE Disputes Are Affecting Chicago and Illinois

• Fraud enforcement remains an active national issue, with Minnesota among the most prominent cases, including Chicago, Illinois, and California.
• Regarding sanctuary cities and ICE, the confirmed US background is that Trump stated the federal government would be defunding “sanctuary cities,” and his administration has an active and aggressive legal and enforcement approach to immigration.

Sanctuary Cities, State Budgets, and Urban Economic Stress

• Specifically, in Illinois and Chicago, Reuters has covered litigation involving sanctuary lawsuits, federal immigration prosecutions against Illinois.
• The new Illinois law addressing abuses in immigration enforcement, and, most recently, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s instruction to Chicago police to investigate the unlawful activities of federal immigration control officers.
• These events point to major political and legal turbulence in Chicago and Illinois over immigration enforcement.
• Still, it would be misleading to define the city’s whole economy by its clashes with ICE.
• Immigration disputes are just one piece of a larger puzzle that includes public finance, policing, housing, and economic competitiveness.

California Budget Problems and Economic Instability

• California’s budget situation is complicated and needs updated numbers.
• The 2025 deficit reached $12 billion, while the governor’s 2026 budget proposal puts the gap at $2.9 billion.
• Experts warn the 2026 budget could get worse as spending, income, and federal policies change.
• Budget problems are still a concern, and the outlook for 2026 depends on which prediction you believe.

New York City Budget Deficits and Fiscal Concerns in 2026

• Turning to New York, a correction is needed: some reports claim Zohran Mamdani is the Mayor and that the city faces a $12 billion deficit.
• In reality, confirmed sources say the deficit is $5.4 billion, not $12 billion, three weeks after Mamdani took office.
• He has also reportedly proposed higher taxes on wealthy New Yorkers.
• New York City’s finances have worsened, drawing concern from credit rating agencies.
• The city is running a deficit, but the earlier reported number was off the mark.

Are Red States Going Broke or Is the Fiscal Stress Nationwide

• Experts are divided on which economic issues are affecting red states and why.
• Red states are experiencing slower revenue growth due to fewer federal remedies,
• increased Medicaid and education spending, and reduced state revenue reserves.
• However, these economic challenges affect all states, including blue states.
• The National Association of State Budget Officers (NASBO) notes that Fiscal Year 2026 is only the second of five years in which states, on average, spent less than the previous year.
• The National Conference of State Legislatures and Pew Charitable Trusts report less federal support for state economies, but this does not mean only red states face economic issues.

How Political Conflict Is Affecting Local Economies and Taxpayers

• Red and blue states are both dealing with economic problems, though the details are different.
• States with higher taxes are cutting spending and seeing more people move away, while states with lower or more balanced taxes are dealing with complicated Medicaid rules, disaster costs, unpredictable tax income, and ups and downs.
• These budget problems are built into the system, not just about politics.

Mortgage and Real Estate Industry Outlook for the Rest of 2026

• For mortgage and housing professionals, the outlook across both red and blue states is far from rosy.
• Rising oil prices, stubborn producer inflation, and a more assertive Fed all point to continued mortgage rate volatility.

Current 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rate Trends in March 2026

• While home purchases may hold steady in 2026, refinancing is likely to stay on the sidelines unless rates drop sharply.
• The primary ongoing constraint is housing affordability, while supply, aside from financing costs, remains the long-term bottleneck.

Will Lower Rates Be Enough to Revive the Mortgage and Housing Market

• Given these challenges, there is cautious optimism among disciplined lenders and patient buyers for the 2026 housing and mortgage market.
• Still, widespread optimism is not justified.
• The market is functioning, but persistent inflation and geopolitical shocks have taken a toll on other key factors.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdmI5YkZ_lM&t=138s

Lately I have been seeing some of the best seafood buffet in Chicago and surrounding suburbs. I remember when I was younger I used to love going to Old Country Buffet. Does anyone know the best seafood buffet in and/or around Chicago where the food is great and price is reasonable. I do not mind paying $50 dollar per person. However, I would like Alaskan King Crab legs or Snow Crab legs, sashimi or sushi, lobster, lobster roll, scallop, shrimp, Korean beef ribs and/or other prime beef (T-Bone, Rib Eye, Porter House, Prime Rib, Barbecue ribs), oysters, and other types of seafood. The video ads I am running into are mainly from Facebook. Thank you in advance!!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTi1zMI0kO8

Market Pulse

On March 19, 2026, the first signs of concern spread through markets as stocks fell and volatility remained high. Investors are watching closely amid global tensions and high inflation, as these issues affect interest rates and prices of goods like oil and metals.

Stocks Turn Lower

Major stock indexes are falling together, putting pressure on US stocks as the VIX shows rising fear. In this situation, traders are quick to avoid risk.

Risk-Off Sentiment Builds

Concerns about conflict, inflation, and tighter central bank rules are prompting investors to move their money into cash, changing the mood among traders worldwide.

Silver Collapse

Silver had the biggest shock of the day, dropping quickly and surprising traders. These big drops often force people to sell, panic because they borrowed to invest, and sell everything fast, which shows the market is falling apart quickly.

Volatility in Precious Metals Also Affects Silver

As traders sell off their investments, silver’s price falls even more, which is surprising for a metal usually seen as a safe investment.

The Reasons that Silver is Plunging

A lot of forced selling, driven by worsening economic conditions, is making silver’s price drop even faster. During these wild times, automatic sell orders and investor demands for more money can push prices much lower than expected.

Goods like oil and metals, stocks, and bonds are all falling quickly. Silver is being hit the hardest, with both everyday and professional traders being forced to sell and losing money.

The Impacts of War on Capital Markets

Tensions in Iran are causing new worries in financial markets, shaking up metals, oil, interest rates, and stocks. Political shocks do not always push metal prices higher; sometimes, people rush to get cash and sell their investments to avoid risk.

Short Interest and the Banks

People are still guessing about how big banks are betting against silver and the way the market is set up are affecting silver prices. Even though reports show banks making big bets that prices will fall, this does not prove they are unfairly controlling the market right now.

COMEX Positions Continue to Be Large

There are many bets on silver’s future price, which could cause big price swings if sentiment toward the market shifts. Many people are involved, and big bets make the market ready for large moves.

Population Claims Must Be Legitimized

While silver’s history includes times when prices were controlled and rules were enforced, not every big drop is a secret plot. More often, borrowing to invest, not having enough cash in the market, and fast trading are the real reasons.

Rising mortgage rates are slowing down refinancing and making the housing market less active. As global worries grow, markets quickly change their prices.

Current Mortgage Rates Go Up

The market remains volatile, reacting sharply to every change in interest rates. First-time homebuyers are hurt the most as homes become even less affordable.

Pricing Bond Yields

Mortgages, government bond rates, what people expect for inflation, and the demand for mortgage-backed investments are all closely connected. Rising concerns about inflation and global events are driving new swings in interest rates. Right now, sellers have the upper hand, but as more homes become available, buyers may get more power.

The outlook is cautiously upbeat: while home sales may dip, prices are set to climb even faster.

Improvements in Inventory

More homes for sale should help buyers, but high mortgage rates still make it hard for many people to afford a home. The economy is slowing down but not stopping, with more people out of work, high inflation, and the Federal Reserve being cautious.

Unemployment Increasing

A weaker job market might slow down inflation for a short time, but prices are still rising and the Federal Reserve is staying alert.

With little chance for big interest rate cuts, uncertainty remains. Mortgage rates and prices now change quickly in response to political news, from the Kristi Noem controversy to the focus on Minnesota fraud investigations.

Kristi Noem’s Controversy

As calls for accountability grow louder, the Noem controversy remains a political flashpoint, drawing intense scrutiny to the Department of Homeland Security.

Minnesota Fraud Probes

Minnesota’s large-scale fraud investigations have made national news, sparking debate over government rules and responsibilities. City policies, immigration rules, and tight budgets are coming up against bigger political and financial problems, putting many cities under more pressure.

Rising Tensions over Sanctuary.

The clash between federal enforcement and local sanctuary policies keeps cities and states locked in legal, political, and financial battles.

Major Cities Face Budget Stress

Big cities like Chicago, New York, and many in California are feeling financial pressure, struggling with high spending, pension promises, insufficient income, and political challenges. The outlook for the mortgage industry in 2026 is still hopeful, but ups and downs are likely to continue. Things may get more stable if interest rates go down, but for now, everyone needs to adjust to the ongoing changes.

2026 is Still Cautiously Positive

If interest rates become more stable, more people should start buying homes, and refinancing could increase in some places, helping the mortgage business and its workers. The main problem is not a lack of buyers, but constant changes in interest rates. Even if the housing market gets better, unexpected events in politics, inflation, or bond markets could still cause problems.

General Assessment

Right now, silver is reacting to many people selling off investments, not just one event. Silver’s big price swings show that the whole economy is changing. Housing is still basically strong but reacts nervously to every change in interest rates. As the economy slows and markets stay unsettled, political surprises make everything feel even more unstable. This is mostly caused by people borrowing to invest and not enough cash in the market, made worse by global uncertainty, which explains the wild price changes.

Housing Remains Rate Sensitive

Housing’s long-term prospects look bright if rates fall, but the near-term remains tough. Optimism is in the air, even if the road ahead is bumpy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdmI5YkZ_lM&t=619s

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https://youtu.be/8DC5w0QG29g?si=wdVqd9p8S4KYi0xD

Stock Market Information For Vanguard Real Estate Index Fund ETF (VNQ)

• Vanguard Real Estate Index Fund ETF is a fund in the USA market.
• The price is 90.8 USD currently with a change of 0.08 USD (0.00%) from the previous close.
• The latest open price was 90.46 USD and the intraday volume is 4617855.
• The intraday high is 90.82 USD and the intraday low is 89.67 USD.
• The latest trade time is Friday, January 30, 17:07:23 CST.

Daily National News Summary for GCA Forums News

As of Friday, January 30, 2026 (CT). Data reflects the latest public releases available as of today; market prices reflect Jan 30 trading.

Daily housing news: mortgage rates, foreclosure stats, CPI, jobs, inventory, home prices, stock market snapshot, and economic updates—clear takeaways.

National Headline News Driving Housing and Finance

Policy And Market Sentiment

• Housing-finance policy risk is back in focus after reporting that Federal Housing Finance Agency leadership authorized significantly larger potential mortgage-bond portfolio holdings for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac—a move framed as rate-supportive, but criticized as adding systemic risk. (AP News)

• Home prices are still rising modestly nationally (nominally), with the latest federal index showing a 0.6% month-over-month gain in November and +1.9% year-over-year. (FHFA.gov)

• What it means for readers: policy headlines can move rates quickly, but affordability still hinges on (1) inventory, (2) incomes/jobs, and (3) inflation prints.

Today’s Housing and Mortgage Trends

Inventory Is Improving—Slowly—But Still Below “Normal”

• December showed active listings +12.1% YoY while homes took 4 days longer to sell; median list price was down 0.6% YoY. (Realtor)

• Realtor.com also noted inventory remains below 2017–2019 norms even after the rebound. (Media | Move, Inc.)

Existing-Home Sales Ended 2025 With Momentum—But Supply Stayed Tight

• Existing-home sales rose 5.1% in December to a 4.35M SAAR; median sales price $405,400 (+0.4% YoY). Inventory was 1.18M units (3.3 months’ supply). (Nar Realtor)

• Actionable insight: Buyers have more choices than last year, but the market is still “thin” in many metros—getting fully underwritten (or at least fully documented) remains a competitive edge.

Interest Rates and Mortgage Rates

Current Mortgage-Rate Benchmark

• The Freddie Mac PMMS showed the 30-year fixed averaged 6.10% for the week ending Jan 29, 2026 (15-year fixed 5.49%).

Demand Signals From Mortgage Applications

• The Mortgage Bankers Association reported applications down 8.5% (week ending Jan 23).

• Refi index -16% WoW but +156% YoY; purchase index -0.4% WoW. (MBA)

• What to watch next: rate direction will remain highly sensitive to inflation prints, labor data, and major policy headlines.

Economic And Financial DevelopmentsInflation Snapshot (CPI)

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported CPI rose 0.4% in December; 12-month CPI: +2.7%. Core CPI (less food & energy) rose 0.2% in December; 12-month core: +2.6%. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Jobs And Unemployment

• The unemployment rate was 4.4% in December; total nonfarm payrolls +50,000 (BLS also noted the October employment report wasn’t issued due to a federal shutdown). (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

• Average hourly earnings rose 0.3% in December and +3.8% over the year. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

GDP (timing note)

• The BEA calendar shows the Advance Estimate for Q4 2025 GDP is scheduled for Feb 20, 2026 (delayed).

• Reader translation: moderating inflation helps mortgage rates, but labor stability is what keeps housing demand from dropping sharply.

Live Foreclosure and Mortgage-Performance Stats

Foreclosures (latest national totals)

• ATTOM reported 322,103 U.S. properties with foreclosure filings in 2025 (down 14% from 2024). (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

• Some of the highest foreclosure rates (state-level) were led by Delaware, Nevada, and New Jersey in ATTOM’s year-end reporting.

Mortgage Performance / Delinquencies

• ICE reported the national delinquency rate fell to 3.68% in December (down 16 bps). (Mortgage Tech)

• Important note: “Real-time” foreclosure counts vary by data vendor and lag courthouse filings. For daily reporting, using the latest monthly/quarterly releases is the most defensible approach.

Housing Starts and New Construction

Latest Construction Signal (most recent government release)

• U.S. Census Bureau reported (latest available in the referenced release) building permits at 1.416M, housing starts at 1.256M, and completions at 1.573M (SAAR).

• Why it matters: sustained starts/completions are the long-term fix for affordability—but new supply takes time to hit the resale market.

Housing and Stock Market Data

Today’s Market Snapshot (real-estate linked)

• VNQ (Real Estate): $90.80 (+0.09%)

• ITB (Homebuilders): $102.03 (-1.30%)

• XHB (Homebuilders): $108.40 (-1.81%)

• SPY (S&P 500): $691.97 (-0.36%)

Home-Price Indices

• FHFA HPI: +0.6% MoM in Nov; +1.9% YoY. (FHFA.gov)

• Case-Shiller (national): +1.4% YoY in Nov (per release commentary). (Cotality)

Agency and Guideline Updates

Loan Limits (big 2026 change that impacts “jumbo vs conforming”)

• FHFA set the 2026 baseline conforming loan limit at $832,750 for most areas. (FHFA.gov)

HUD / FHA Highlights

• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development published FHA guidance establishing 2026 forward mortgage loan limits effective for case numbers assigned on/after Jan 1, 2026. (HUD)

• FHA also raised the HECM maximum claim amount to $1,249,125 for case numbers on/after Jan 1, 2026. (HUD)

Automobile Finance and SalesSales Pace

• Cox Automotive forecast January 2026 new-vehicle SAAR near 15.3M, down from December’s 16.1M pace. (Cox Automotive Inc.)

Payments and Rates

• Edmunds data cited by Investopedia showed average monthly car payment around $781 with average new-car APR about 6.7% (and growing use of 84-month terms). (Investopedia)

GCA Forums News FAQs

What Is The Current Average Mortgage Rate?

• Freddie Mac’s weekly benchmark put the 30-year fixed at 6.10% (week ending Jan 29, 2026).

Are Home Prices Falling or Rising Right Now?

• National measures show modest gains:
• FHFA reported +1.9% YoY in November. (FHFA.gov)

Is Housing Inventory Getting Better?

• Yes—active listings were up 12.1% YoY in December, though still below pre-2020 norms. (Realtor)

What Does CPI Have To Do With Mortgage Rates?

• Lower inflation readings can reduce pressure on long-term yields and mortgage rates.
• December CPI was +2.7% YoY and core +2.6% YoY. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Are Foreclosures Rising?

• ATTOM reported 2025 filings down 14% vs. 2024, though rates vary widely by state and metro. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

What’s The New Conforming Loan Limit For 2026?

• The baseline limit is $832,750 in most counties (higher in high-cost areas). (FHFA.gov)

Are Buyers or Sellers in Control?

• It’s shifting toward balance: more listings and slightly softer prices in some areas, but supply remains tight in many markets. (Nar Realtor)

Virality Strategies for Today’s Post

Shareable hooks (copy/paste)

• “Mortgage rates are near 6.1% again—here’s what that changes for buyers this week.”

• “Inventory is up 12% year-over-year—but why does it still feel ‘tight’?” (Realtor)

• “Foreclosures fell in 2025, but which states are still flashing red?”

Quick infographic ideas (describe + publish)

1. “Housing Dashboard”: rates (30Y/15Y), inventory YoY, existing sales, CPI YoY, unemployment rate.

2. Map graphic: top 10 states by foreclosure rate (ATTOM list).

3. Two-line chart: FHFA YoY price growth vs. CPI YoY (simple “affordability pressure” visual). (FHFA.gov)

Calls-To-Action (GCA-aligned)

• “Discuss today’s numbers with real loan officers and real borrowers inside GCA Forums.”

• “Need a scenario review (DTI, credit, down payment)?

• Start a thread—Gustan Cho Associates can help map your best lane.”

apnews.com

Trump housing finance chief OKs more mortgage spending and adds risk for government-backed lenders

President Donald Trump’s federal housing finance director, Bill Pulte, quietly granted government-backed lenders the authority to nearly double a $200 billion bond purchase that Trump ordered to try to lower mortgage rates.

There’s a video series about several pet monkeys. Little pet monkeys are extremely intelligent and cute.

Considering A Pet Macaque Monkey

Insights, Availability, Costs, and Wisconsin Regulations.

You might think owning a monkey is an interesting idea, especially bear macaw mandrills for pets. These monkeys are known for their extreme intelligence and very sophisticated social customs. Their faces are expressive with distinctive features and immensely playful. Therefore, some people consider them exotic pets. But there is a need to ponder a bit deeper before adopting a pet monkey, particularly a baby macaque monkey. This requires consideration of various important factors, including cost, availability, and legal issues, especially in Wisconsin.

Understanding Macaque Monkeys as Pets

Having a pet monkey is like having a small, adorable friend in your home. These pets are also considered very intelligent. They have sophisticated family structures. Macques live in social groups and engage in various physical and mental activities. Suppose they are kept in a domesticated setting like a house or an apartment. In that case, it’s very difficult to replicate this, which can cause severe behavioral problems. An owner must accommodate a multi-dimensional approach to meeting a Macaque’s needs. People wanting these pets should also be ready for the commitment because pet monkeys, particularly macaques, can live for decades.

Availability and Cost of Baby Macaque Monkeys

Contact trusted breeders or exotic pet shops to buy a pet monkey or baby macaque.

Here are several websites that are useful guides in your search.

Supreme Exotic Animals for Sale:

• This website offers several varieties of baby macaques for sale.
• One of the babies, Lily, is listed for roughly $750.
• supremeexoticanimalsforsale.com

General Monkeys for Adoption:

• Another website offers black long-tail macaques for about $1,200 and pigtail macaques for around $900 to $1,000.
• generalmonkeysforadoption.com

Exotic Animals for Sale:

• Features listings like baby marmosets (pocket monkeys) and squirrel monkeys.
• Prices vary.
• Potential buyers must fill out a request form for specific pricing.

Exotic Animals for Sale:

• Features listings like baby marmosets (pocket monkeys) and squirrel monkeys.
• Prices vary.
• Potential buyers must fill out a request form for specific pricing. ​
• exoticpetsforsale.com.

It’s crucial to note that prices can fluctuate based on factors such as age, health, and monkey rarity. The initial purchase price is just the beginning. Ongoing costs include specialized diets, veterinary care, and suitable housing to ensure the monkey’s well-being. ​

Legal Considerations in Wisconsin

• Before acquiring a macaque monkey, it’s imperative to understand the legal landscape in your state.
• Wisconsin’s regulations regarding exotic pets are nuanced:

Exotic Animals for Sale

• Features listings like baby marmosets (pocket monkeys) and squirrel monkeys.
• Prices vary.
• Potential buyers must fill out a request form for specific pricing. ​
• dinocalifornia.com

Wisconsin Is Watching

General Regulations:

• Wisconsin is among the states with relatively lenient laws concerning the ownership of non-native species.
• Owning a monkey, or almost any other non-native animal species, is currently legal in Wisconsin.

It is among five states:

• Alabama
• Nevada
• North Carolina and South Carolina

The above states are the other states with no bans on owning ‘dangerous’ exotic animals. ​

Check out the link for further information.

• Blackfeminity.com
• Dinocalifornia.com

Wisconsin Watch: Animal Law

Importation Requirements:

• A General Import Permit application is necessary if the animals are privately owned and relocated to Wisconsin.
• Different permit applications exist for some animals, such as those in a rodeo, circus, or menagerie visiting Wisconsin briefly.

Restrictions on Local Ordinances:

• While state laws may allow certain exotic animal ownership, local city or county laws might be more restrictive.
• You should check with local authorities to ensure you abide by all relevant laws.

Perspectives From Current Monkey Owners

The following information may be helpful for current pet owners of monkeys:

Social Media Groups:

• Facebook has groups that serve as communities where enthusiasts and owners can share experiences.
• For instance, one user posted about some ‘adorable’ capuchin monkeys for sale, and comments highlighted how sweet and playful they are.

Educational Videos:

Some mini-documentaries feature “pet monkeys,” showing how smart and charismatic they can be. One video of a pet monkey named “Lilly,” who lives in Vietnam, shows how much love this monkey has for her owner. It is as if she is a mother to a young child.

Ultimately

As tempting as it may be to own a baby macaque monkey, proper research and preparation is advised:

Ongoing Responsibility:

• Macaques regularly need your attention, time, and resources.
• Their care is complex, and their lifespan can reach several decades.

Moral and Legal Duty:

• Ensure that, at the first stage, owning a macaque will adhere to all legal terms.
• Remember the moral issues for keeping a wild animal as a pet.

World Population Review

Other types of engagement:

• If ownership appears difficult, consider donations to primate rescue facilities or volunteer activities that allow hands-on involvement without requiring permanent placement.

To sum up, some pet owners may find it rewarding on some level to have pet macaque monkeys, but they need to be mindful of the obligations and difficulties that come with it. Those willing to leap should know and be ready to tackle these issues for harmonious coexistence with their primate pet.

They are no different than having a little kid that normally behaves. Each pet monkey has its own personality. Anyone raise a pet monkey? Watch this short video. The owner of Lilly lives in Vietnam. This video will make your day. 😍

https://youtu.be/HhVmi-if1yU?si=RY380dlthSfvqHsY

• This discussion was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Gustan Cho.

GCA FORUMS NEWS – Friday, December 12, 2025-Powered by Gustan Cho Associates

All figures below are approximate and based on publicly available data as of Friday afternoon, December 12, 2025 (ET).

Markets Wrap: Dow Holds Near Records, Tech Leads Pullback

On December 12, 2025, U.S. stock prices fell after rising earlier in the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, which had recently hit record highs, dropped 0.6% to close around $48,400 to $48,700. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq also fell by approximately 1% and 1.5-1.6%, respectively. Investors reacted to uncertainty about the Fed’s rate cut and disagreements within the Fed on how quickly to tighten policy. The U.S. Trade Representative also signaled that new and expanded tariffs could be coming, which may affect advanced economies and corporate profits.

Borrowers and homebuyers are feeling the effects as stock indexes hit all-time highs. This boosts retirement accounts, 401(k)s, and down payment savings for those invested in the stock market. People with higher incomes benefit the most, especially when interest rates remain high.

Live Rates: Mortgages, Bonds, and the Cost of Money Mortgage Rates Today

Mortgage rates have decreased from their 2022-2023 highs, but remain well above 3%, according to several sources.

• A typical 30-year fixed mortgage (purchase) is currently about 6.27-6.33% APR.
• Freddie Mac PMMS (weekly as of 12/11/2025)
• • 30-year fixed: 6.22%
  • 15-year fixed: 5.54%

Nationwide, rates can vary depending on credit, loan type, and state, so GCA pricing may differ.

• Conventional 30-yr fixed: ~ 6.2-6.4%
• FHA 30-year rates are generally slightly lower than conventional rates, with Freddie Mac showing a rate just above 6.0%.
• VA 30-year loans are slightly higher than FHA or conventional rates, even for borrowers with strong credit.
• Jumbo conventional: ~6.4-6.5%+

Effects on Borrowers:

• A $600,000 mortgage currently costs thousands more than it would at an interest rate of 3-4%, regardless of the recent Fed rate cut.
• On the positive side, spreads have stabilized. If inflation remains low, 2026 could bring lower interest rates and increased home sales, even as tariffs continue to drive inflation.

Treasury Yield

• The 10-year. The 10-year US Treasury yield is currently at about 4.19% this week and is moving slightly upward, reflecting a cautious yet calm market attributed to the Fed.
• Particularly important for mortgages, as fixed mortgage rates tend to follow the yield of the 10-year Treasury, plus a margin of caution.
• The 10-year U.S. Treasury yield is currently at about 4.19% this week and is edging upward.
• This shows a cautious but calm market, influenced by the Fed.
• FFS increases the prices of goods Americans buy, including groceries and housing, as import costs are passed on to consumers.

Key events and assessments:

• AP quotes Democrats estimating $1,200 loss per US household attributed to tariffs since Trump’s latest return to office in 2025.
• A Tax Foundation analysis found that Trump’s tariffs have led to an average ‘tax’ loss of about $1,200 per household by distorting trade and raising prices.
• The analysis found that tariffs are responsible for 0.4-0.5 percentage points of the core PCE inflation for the last year, which is approximately 10.9% of the inflation.
• J.P. Morgan estimates that 0.4 to 0.5 percentage points of core inflation are due to tariffs, indicating that 40-50% of tariff costs are passed on to consumers, and this share may increase.

Recent tariffs in the news:

• The U.S. Trade Representative added new Section 301 tariffs on Nicaraguan imports and increased rates on imports from some other countries.
• They have updated their ‘Trump 2.0 tariff tracker’.
• U. S. Announced 15% Tariffs on Nicaragua over Human Rights, which will be Gradually Implemented over the next Few Years.
• Mexico is extending its International Trade Agreements and will begin charging tariffs of up to 50% on Non-Favored Trading Partners – including India – effective January 1, 2026.
• This shows a broader move toward protectionist trade policies worldwide.

Borrowers

• When tariffs increase, inflation typically rises as well, which is reflected in key price indexes such as the CPI and PCE that the Fed monitors. If inflation stays high, mortgage rates are likely to stay high as well. An analysis from the Center for American Progress referred to these tariffs as a ‘hidden holiday tax’ because they increased the prices of toys, personal care, and home goods, which are the same goods consumers typically budget for while saving for a down payment.

Jobs and Consumer AttitudeAn Inflation Snapshot

• The latest official CPI data for September 2025 is
• • 3.0% for headline inflation year over year.
  • 3.0% is the Core inflation (without food and energy).
• The Cleveland Fed estimates that monthly inflation was between 0.24% and 0.29% in November and December. Inflation remains steady, but is not increasing rapidly.

Jobs and Unemployment

• U.S. Unemployment Rate (September 2025): 4.4%. This number is the highest it has been since 2021 and is slightly higher than the predicted rate.

Some states are suffering more than others:

• For example, in September, Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% This is a 1% increase from last year.

In housing, slow growth, high inflation, and rising unemployment make homes less affordable. This is sometimes referred to as ‘stagflation lite’ or ‘slow growth, high cost.’

Consumer Sentiment

• The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index has increased, but remains low by historical standards, even after rising to 53.3–53.6. other words, consumers feel slightly better than they did last month.
• For real estate agents and lenders, this mood means people are making decisions more slowly than usual.

Gold

• When markets are uncertain, people often buy metals as a form of hedging.- Gold: 4,341 per ounce USD and is near a 7-week high

Silver:

• • Silver is trading around $62 per ounce this afternoon, near a recent high of about $64.31.

Reasons:

• The weaker dollar
• Expectations for more rate cuts from the Federal Reserve in 2026
• Silver is in high demand for industry and has recently been named a U.S. ‘critical mineral.’

For GCA’s investor clients:

• The rise in metal prices indicates that investors are seeking ways to mitigate risk.
• DSCR investors note that higher metals and sticky inflation can keep long-term rates high, which will affect the value of cap rates and the value of DSCR refi math.

Recent housing forecasts predict that the market will neither crash nor boom.

A Real Estate News analysis of 2026 housing trends predicts a modest increase in home sales, accompanied by lower mortgage rates.

2023 is not expected to be a total loss, as a recession is unlikely; however, affordability will remain a challenge.

CBS recently explained how the Fed’s December rate cut affects monthly payments on a $600,000 mortgage, showing that even small rate changes can save or cost hundreds each month.

GCA Forums News: Viewers, Borrowers and Agents

For 2026, expect small, steady changes, but not a return to the bargain prices of 2012.

Revenue deal structuring remains vital.

Creative deal structuring remains important, with options such as FHA, VA, Non-QM, DSCR, 2/1 buydowns, and seller credits.

As for the infidelity and paternity claims surrounding Vice President JD Vance and Erika Kirk (widow of activist Charlie Kirk), how do you assess the validity of those claims?### 7.1 What Actually Happened Publicly

• During a Turning Point USA event on October 29, Erika Kirk embraced Vance.
• Pictures and videos show her hand in his hair and his hand on her waist.
• This generated suggestions of having an affair.
• This led some commentators to suggest an affair, saying Vance seemed more affectionate with Erika than in videos with his wife, Usha Vance.
• Recently went viral with claims that Vance is the father of her alleged pregnancy.
• However, there is no solid evidence to support these claims, so they are best viewed as internet gossip.

Mainstream coverage:

• A report on the embrace and reaction. Salon and other outlets reported on the embrace and reactions, but treated it as gossip and speculation rather than a confirmed affair. Outlets, including People, have focused on Vance, addressing the more expansive marriage speculation and Vance, albeit without evidence of infidelity.

What We Do NOT HAVE EVIDENCE FOR

• There have been no reputable, confirmed allegations that JD Vance and Erika Kirk are in a romantic relationship.
• There is no confirmed evidence that Vance is the father of Erika Kirk.
• Vance has been married to his wife for many years and has been refuting accusations suggesting his marriage has been on the rocks.

So here’s what I can say:

The rumors surrounding The Affair and alleged fatherhood are purely speculative, and I cannot treat them as fact. There are no other rumors, but there is real and very public media drama:

• Candace Owens has taken heat from Erika Kirk for what he’s called a vile and intrusive response to the assassination of her husband, Charlie Kirk, and the subsequent public refusal to disclose his burial site.
• Erika Kirk has pushed back on Owens’ alleged vile suggestions during the interview with Bari Weiss. Owens claimed that Weiss is making money off of conspiracy theories that have no grounding and that her theories are about Charlie’s death.
• Owens responded on social media, saying Erika wants to control her image like Meghan Markle and has been in a bad mood lately, ready to escalate the drama.

So these are the facts:

• There is real, documented tension between Owens and Erika Kirk, marked by conspiracy, loss, and drama.
• The affair and pregnancy rumors cannot be confirmed, as there are no reliable sources.

Kash Patel, Dan Bongino, and the FBI Mess

You also wanted to know about Kash Patel, Dan Bongino, Alexis Wilkins, the FBI plane, SWAT details, and whether Trump is taking a negative stance towards them.

Use of the FBI Plane and Security Detail

Information as of late:

• House Democrats on the Judiciary Committee are now investigating FBI Director Christopher Wray, not Kash Patel. They are looking into Wray’s use of a jet, including alleged trips to visit his country singer girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, and other personal travel that he instructed the FBI security detail assigned to his girlfriend to drive one of her reportedly drunk Nashville night friends home after they had been out.
• The FBI defended Patel against claims of misusing security agents, and Patel did not have a Nashville SWAT team assigned to Wilkins.
• She has received serious, credible death threats.

So, where does that leave things?

• There are serious allegations and ongoing investigations into how Patel spent taxpayer money.
• The FBI disputes some of the more sensational claims, and no formal charges have been filed so far.

Internal Turmoil and \“Clown Bongino\”Dan Bongino’s Role:

• Dan Bongino, a former Secret Service agent and conservative personality, is now the Deputy Director of the FBI under Trump.
• Reports indicate significant internal dissent within the FBI regarding the leadership of Patel and Bongino.
• • A Daily Beast article emphasized internal critics referring to them as \“Keystone Kash\” and \“Clown Bongino,\” representing the ire of some career agents.
  • Other articles talk about loyalty tests, polygraph use, and culture clashes between MAGA-aligned appointees and longtime FBI staff.

Political Heat:

• A group of fired FBI agents has sued Patel, the DOJ, and the administration for retaliation in violation of the law for kneeling during 2020 racial-justice protests.
• Patel and Bongino have also faced scrutiny related to the Epstein files.rts show that *Bongino* has been in contention with Attorney General Pam Bondi over redactions and lack of transparency.

Are They ‘On Their Way Out’?The Devil is in the details:

• MS NOW reported that Trump has been thinking of ousting Patel, but:
• The White House and Trump denied this on the record, calling it \“fake news\” and tweeting pictures of Trump and Patel together.

Reports suggest that Bongino could be politically at risk due to the Epstein files controversy and low morale at the FBI, but there is no indication that Trump has decided to fire him.

Given that, the fairest summary as of now is:

• Patel and Bongino are facing criticism from Congress, the media, and people inside the FBI.

Trump

There are rumors that Trump is considering replacements, but both the White House and Trump have stayed quiet, which suggests he is still supporting Patel for now.

Any claims that ‘these two are out’ or that ‘Trump is turning against them’ are just speculation based on what we know now.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjCct-uC7vc&list=RDNSjjCct-uC7vc&start_radio=1

• This discussion was modified 4 months, 4 weeks ago by  Sapna Sharma.

US Marketplace and Economy News – GCA December 15, 2025

US and global markets tiptoed into the week, setting a cautious tone. Here is your quick guide to the top headlines for December 15, 2025.

Dow Jones Industrial Average: 48,416.56, down 41.0 points, or 0.1% (Reuters) S&P 500 and Nasdaq:

Slight declines as markets await economic data and earnings.

Mortgage Rates: 30-Year Fixed: 6.2–6.3%, 15-Year: 5.5–5.6%.

Gold: $4,300/oz

Silver: $64/oz.

Consumer sentiment declined further in December.

For GCA Forums readers: Although rates are still high, they have retreated from their peak, and the housing market is gaining momentum.

Political headlines may swirl, but they do not sway mortgage approvals.

The main message: Keep your focus on interest rates and housing trends, not the noise.

As Monday wrapped up, Wall Street’s mood stayed cautious, mirroring a market that is watchful but far from panicked.

Major U.S. stock indexes ended the day slightly lower.

• Dow Jones Industrial Average: 48,416.56, down 0.09% or 41.49 points.
• S&P 500: Down approximately 0.1%.
• Nasdaq Composite fell about 0.26%, led by declines in tech stocks (Reuters).
• Traders are awaiting the upcoming release of new economic data.
• They are monitoring job numbers, inflation, growth rates, and the recent Federal Reserve rate cut, which occurred on December 10.
• The Federal Reserve has responded carefully, but its messages remain somewhat unclear.
• Officials expect slower growth in 2026, but not a significant downturn.
• For borrowers and homebuyers, the recent dip in stocks is a signal to pause and reflect, rather than chase fears of a recession or dreams of a sudden housing surge.
• Key takeaway: Today’s market calls for steady caution, not panic or wild optimism.
• This section examines major factors influencing the economy, including inflation, Federal Reserve policy decisions, and tariffs.

Federal Reserve Stance After December Rate Cut

On December 10, the Federal Reserve again reduced the policy rate, lowering the federal funds target to 3.50-3.75%.

• New York Fed President John Williams believes policy is now “In a good position.”
• He predicts inflation drifting to 2.5% by 2026 and 2.0% by 2027.
• Boston Fed President Susan Collins called the cut a “close call” and wants more evidence before supporting further cuts.
• Fed Governor Stephen Miran urges more rate cuts, citing “phantom inflation” in shelter data that keeps policy tight.
• According to the Federal Reserve, if inflation continues to decline, economic growth is expected to remain steady, and unemployment may rise gradually.
• However, a recession is not anticipated.
• Key takeaway: The Federal Reserve projects stability but remains cautious.
• Regarding tariffs, the following is outlined below if you asked about:

On the consumer level:

• AP and ABC report tariffs raised prices on some seasonal items, groceries, and utilities. Households find gifts and groceries costlier than usual.

On a macro level:

A Wall Street Journal analysis found tariffs have not harmed the economy, despite concerns.

GDP rose, with recent quarters showing the strongest growth in two years.

A current trade dispute involves the United States threatening to increase tariffs on rice imports, while India denies allegations of “dumping.

For borrowers, tariffs may bump up prices on some goods, but they have not put the brakes on economic growth. overall economic growth.

This push-and-pull keeps consumer spending afloat, while also making the Federal Reserve tread carefully.

Key takeaway: Tariffs raise prices but do not halt economic expansion, which explains the Federal Reserve’s cautious approach.

Mortgage Rates and the Housing Market Current Mortgage Rates

According to various rate trackers, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is around 6.2–6.3%.

• According to the Freddie Mac weekly survey, as of December 11, the rate was 6.22%.
• Specific banking retail trackers report rates near 6.29%.
• The average 15-year fixed rate is about 5.5–5.6% (ranging from 5.54% to 5.63% depending on the source).
• Rates have decreased from their 7–8% highs, but they are still higher than most people would prefer.
• Many homeowners are staying with their current loans, while first-time buyers continue to face challenges, especially in more expensive areas. Key takeaway: Rates are better, but challenges remain.
• Many existing homeowners are rate-locked at approximately 3%.
• First-time buyers face particular difficulty in more expensive markets.

Housing Market Outlook:

Recent forecasts suggest that home prices will increase by less than 4% on average, not drop, because a small increase in homes for sale will not resolve the ongoing shortage. Some predictions suggest that the number of homes for sale could increase by about 10% in 2026, which may help somewhat but will not resolve the issue. The market is expected to strengthen, especially if 30-year mortgage rates approach or fall below 6%.

• The National Association of Realtors and other industry analysts identify this threshold as a potential catalyst for increased market activity.

For GCA Forums readers:

Today’s market is steady—not a repeat of 2008, nor a wild boom. Buyers who are ready and work with flexible lenders can still find good deals, even though big banks are being careful. Key takeaway: Savvy buyers can thrive in a balanced market. The global precious metals market remains uncertain, and investors expect further rate cuts.

Gold:

Gold trades in the low to mid $4,300s per ounce, rising slightly during the day (JM Bullion).

Silver is trading at approximately $63 to $64 per ounce, with recent increases as the gold/silver ratio narrows.

Across the metals, experts are pointing out several key factors: lower real returns, global events, ongoing concerns about inflation, and yields returning to 2%, which are fueling higher metal prices. Key takeaway: Ongoing concerns about inflation and falling yields are driving demand for precious metals. Many borrowers and homeowners expect more ups and downs in inflation and policy, so they are buying now and planning to refinance later.

Law Enforcement Turmoil, Kash Patel and Dan Bongino

You specifically. Inquired Kash Patel, Alexis Wilkins, and Dan Bongino, including Allegations Involving FBI Aircraft and SWAT Details.

This Is What Is Alleged or Commented on and What is Confirmed to be Current Reporting.

Kash Patel: Jet and SWAT Controversies: FBI Director Kash Patel is experiencing “political and media scrutiny” surrounding his use of FBI Resources:

House Democrats have opened inquiries surrounding his alleged use of an FBI jet for an alleged “date night” flight to see his country-singer girlfriend Alexis Wilkins perform.

Others have alleged that Patel assigned and/or shifted SWAT personnel to Wilkins’ security detail and that he has pressured agents to drive one of Wilkins’ drunk friends around, to which the FBI has denied these rumors exist, calling them made-up or exaggerated.

These are allegations and ongoing investigations, and have yet to lead to any criminal charges.

In response to some of the more outrageous allegations made, Patel and spokespeople for the FBI have defended or countered these claims.

Dan Bongino: Leadership Questions and “Clown” Label

• Media figure and former Secret Service agent Dan Bongino was sworn in as Deputy Director of the FBI in 2025 under the leadership of Patel.
• Recent media coverage reports that there is a great deal of uneasiness at the bureau concerning Patel, where there are allegations from unnamed sources insinuating that he is ‘in over his head’ while describing Bongino as a ‘clown’ who has no experience at the FBI, thus negatively affecting staff morale as well as overall operational efficiency.
• ProPublica also reported that there is a lack of internal controls after Patel resigned his post and waived his right to screen the polygraphers, who, it is alleged, took the Bongino and the other senior-level officials.
• There is more than one recent account suggesting that Bongino is possibly contemplating a leave from the FBI, at least in the near future, despite his official sources claiming that active work is still taking place in his office and that a final outcome has not been determined.

Political accounts suggest that some frustration exists among Trump and his advisers regarding Patel’s and Bongino’s activities, and possible leadership changes are being considered. For GCA Forums members, these political developments primarily affect public perceptions of institutions rather than directly impacting mortgage rates or approvals. Key takeaway: Leadership changes have minimal direct impact on borrowers.

THE RUMORS ABOUT ERIKA KIRK, JD VANCE, AND THE ATTACKS ON CANDACE OWENS

You were inquiring about:

AND THE ATTACKS CANDACE OWENS ON ERIKA KIRK

THE FACTS AS YOU HAVE THEM: The Nature of Public Displays of Affection and Marriage Speculation

Mainstream media sources, such as People, have discussed social media commentary surrounding Vice President JD Vance’s marriage, following a widely disseminated embrace of Vance and Kirk, and rapid-fire social media comments regarding his wife, Usha, which sometimes appear to be ringed.

These articles approach the subject as marital discord gossip, not as documented infidelity, clandestine offspring, etc

There is no solid foundation for the ‘Vance is the Father’ assertion.

I have not come across any credible original reporting and/or court documents supporting JD Vance’s paternity of any child with Erika Kirk.

• Most people who have theories about this tend to say it is just gossip based on public behavior and speculation, rather than actual evidence.

Even so, I cannot* ethically continue the wilder forms of speculation (e.g. rumors of parentage). I would be tainting the public narrative with allegations of defamation against actual people, and, even more, doing so without evidence.

Candace Owens’ Criticisms of Erika Kirk

There is some quite interesting criticism of Candace Owens regarding Erika Kirk, but nothing regarding infidelity; rather, it has to do with conspiracy theories surrounding the possible assassination of Charlie Kirk:

• It has been documented that Owens has used her platforms to promote some not very credible and controversial theories as to who purportedly plotted the assassination of Kirk and has received backlash for it from various individuals, regardless of their political affiliation.
• Kirk has publicly asked Owens to stop spreading emotionally painful and false theories surrounding the assassination of Kirk, since she and her children need some peace to grieve.
• These individuals (Tomi Lahren, Matt Walsh, etc.) have also voiced their concerns regarding Owens, that there is some sort of tragedy, and are pleading that Erika Kirk should not be allowed to mourn.

Numerous sources are reporting that, for now, Erika Kirk and Candace Owens have quietly agreed to disseminate. From an editorial perspective, it is essential to: Lastly, from an editorial view, the only possible position would be to:

• Differentiate between documented facts (assassination, change of leadership at TPUSA, statements made by Owens, statements made by white Kirk, accusations made by Kirk, and the proposed private meeting)
• And purely factless conjecture surrounding some individuals’ private lives (who’s purportedly in love with whom, paternity of whom, etc.) to the extent of treating it as what it should be~ unfounded rumors.

Implications for GCA Forums News:

With the main headlines covered, let’s shift back to what matters most—housing, mortgages, and smart financial moves for GCA readers. Rates are still high, but the trend is improving.

The 30-year fixed rate is now in the low 6% range, which is better than before. If inflation continues to decline and the Federal Reserve gradually lowers rates, average mortgage rates could drop to the high 5% or low 6% range by 2026, making homes more affordable. Inflation and tariffs are making it harder for families to manage their budgets, but they have not slowed down the economy. Inflation is likely to persist for a while, but the economy is expected to remain strong. The housing market continues to face challenges, including high prices and a shortage of homes for sale, which helps maintain high home values and benefits current homeowners. Political controversies involving the FBI, Patel, Bongino, and conservative media are garnering significant attention but have a limited direct impact. Even though trust and division could be problems in the long run, obtaining a mortgage still depends on your income, credit, home value, down payment, and the lender’s expertise with various types of loans. News about public figures does not really matter for most people’s mortgages. They barely move the needle on mortgage-backed securities, treasury yields, or loan pricing. For GCA Forums News readers, these headlines are more show than substance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyozhj41tQw

• This discussion was modified 4 months, 3 weeks ago by  Sapna Sharma.

Cambodia is the largest exporter of illegal wild baby monkeys to the United States. Since 2014 over 30,000 baby monkeys were laundered annually from Cambodia to the United States. Each baby monkey, mainly 1kg to 3kg baby macaques at a cost of $30,000 to $50,000 each. Baby monkeys were used at research labs, pharmaceutical companies, colleges and universities, and private and government backed hospitals.

Fake permits, undercover informants and millions of dollars. How a US government agency set out to prove suppliers to research labs were importing wild monkeys from Cambodia with false paperwork.

This documentary contains footage that may be disturbing to some viewers. GCA Forums News Investigates is an award-winning series that sets out to uncover the truth behind some of the most powerful stories from around the world. Watch more: • Bloomberg Investigates. Originals offers bold takes for curious minds on today’s biggest topics. Hosted by experts covering stories you haven’t seen and viewpoints you haven’t heard, you’ll discover cinematic, data-led shows that investigate the intersection of business and culture. Exploring every angle of climate change, technology, finance, sports and beyond, GCA Forums News is business as you’ve never seen it.

Subscribe for business news, but not as you’ve known it: exclusive interviews, fascinating profiles, data-driven analysis, and the latest in tech innovation from around the world.

Visit our partner channel Great Community Authority News for global and National News and insight in an instant.

https://youtu.be/En7BDSt_u9A?si=rO9OUoeKcYM8Mwz3

You do not need perfect credit or high credit scores to qualify for a mortgage loan. Every loan program require a minimum credit score. Besides HUD, VA, USDA, FANNIE MAE, FREDDIE MAC, or non-QM portfolio lenders requiring a minimum credit score, each lender can impose lender overlays on credit scores. Lender overlays are additional credit score requirements above and beyond the minimum agency mortgage guidelines imposed by each individual mortgage lender. Regardless of the minimum credit scores required, all lenders will normally want to see timely payment history in the past 12 months. Regardless of the prior bad credit you have, having timely payment on all of your monthly debt payments that report on the three credit reports is crucial. Do not worry about prior collections, charge-off accounts, late payments, or other derogatory credit tradelines unless you are going though a manual underwrite on FHA loans. HUD manual underwriting guidelines require timely payments in the past 24 months. VA manual underwriting guidelines require timely payments in the past 12 months. In many instances when you get an approve/eligible per automated underwriting system but late payments in the past 24 months, the lender may down grade your file to a manual underwrite. The best solution for you to increase your credit scores and strenghen your credit profile with recent late payments is adding positive credit with new credit. Please read this guide on how to boost your credit to get approved for a mortgage: Capital One Secured Credit Card will get you a $250 secured credit card with a $50 deposit. Self.Inc is a bank that has a phenomenal credit rebuilder program where you can make a monthly deposit as small as $25.00 per month. That monthly deposit goes towards a savings account but it reports as an installment loan to all three credit bureaus. Get a Discover secured card. Secured credit cards are the same as unsecured traditional credit card. The only difference is you need to put a deposit. The amount of deposit is the amount of credit you get by the credit card company. You need to make timely minimum monthly payments on your secured credit cards. Just start with these three creditors and you will see wonders in the weeks and months ahead. I will cover some quick fixes for you to increase your credit scores fast and at the end of this topic thread, I will list helpful resources on boosting your credit to qualify for a mortgage, how to reach a human at the credit bureaus, and how to rebuild your credit:

1. Capital One Secured Credit Card

2. Self.Inc

3. Discover Secured Credit Card

As time pass and you make timely payments, your secured credit card company will increase your credit limit without asking your to put additional deposit. If you can get more secured credit cards, it will expedite your credit rebuilding process. However, you should at least start with the above three creditors.

Improving your credit scores and rebuilding credit can be crucial when seeking mortgage approval. Here are some effective strategies to consider:

Review your credit reports: Obtain copies of your credit reports from the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Identify and dispute any errors or inaccuracies that may be negatively impacting your credit scores.

Pay bills on time: Payment history is the most significant factor affecting your credit scores. Make sure to pay all your bills (credit cards, loans, utilities, etc.) on time, every time. Set up automatic payments or payment reminders if necessary.

Reduce credit card balances: High credit card balances can hurt your credit utilization ratio, which accounts for a significant portion of your credit scores.

Aim to keep your credit card balances below 30% of your total available credit limit. Consider paying off credit cards with the highest balances first.

Don’t close unused credit cards: Closing credit cards can inadvertently increase your credit utilization ratio and decrease your overall available credit. Keep unused credit cards open, but avoid using them to maintain a low credit utilization ratio.

Increase credit limit: Request a credit limit increase from your credit card issuers, which can improve your credit utilization ratio. Be sure to handle the increased credit limit responsibly and avoid overspending.

Limit new credit applications: Each credit application results in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can temporarily lower your credit scores. Limit credit applications only to when absolutely necessary.

Use different types of credit: Having a mix of different types of credit (e.g., credit cards, auto loans, personal loans) can positively impact your credit scores. Consider taking out a small loan or opening a new credit card account if you have limited credit types.

Monitor your credit regularly: Check your credit reports and scores periodically to ensure accuracy and track your progress. Consider signing up for a credit monitoring service to receive alerts for any changes to your credit profile.

Be patient and consistent: Rebuilding credit takes time and consistent effort. Stick to responsible credit habits, and your credit scores should gradually improve, increasing your chances of mortgage approval.

Remember, lenders evaluate various factors beyond just credit scores when considering mortgage applications. However, improving your credit scores and maintaining a healthy credit profile can significantly increase your chances of getting approved for a mortgage with favorable terms.

https://gustancho.com/boost-your-credit-with-new-credit/

gustancho.com

Boost Your Credit With New Credit To Qualify For A Mortgage

Boost your credit with new credit to qualify for a mortgage . New secured credit cards and credit builder loans increases credit scores for mortgage

Can you please show me a comprehensive detailed step by step overview for creating and developing BUSINESS CREDIT and BUSINESS CREDT SCORES. I am a dually licensed real estate agent and NMLS licensed Mortgage Loan Originator and operate as a dba of my main mortgage brokerage company. However, I have my own and separate SUB CHAPTER S CORPORATION. I opened my S-corp two years ago and I am planning on getting active starting now in 2026? How can I get approved for business Credit Cards and which financial institutions would you recommend for easier approval and support in helping newer businesses build Business Credit.

I need to buy a house and I got denied with a lender who was extremely incompetent where I got pre-approved and at the last minute I got denied due to my debt to income ratio. I am trying to buy a house for $200,000. My situation is I have full time employment. However, in 2024, I worked 40 hours consistently and made 80,000. However, in 2025, I only made 50,000 because my hours was reduced to a minimum of 32 hours due to going to a certificate training program for work. I am still classified full time since I work between 32 and 36 hours. I will be done with the certified training program in June 2026. I also have two newer vehicles under my name which is 780 per month for mine and 600 per month for my fiancee. This pushes my debt to income ratio to 70% back end with my father included as non-occupant co-signer. What solution do you have on me qualifying and getting approved for an FHA loan? Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Is there any way my fiancee can take the hit on the vehicle he is driving and paying for even though it is under my name? He cannot refinance under his name because he went through a divorce and has tons of recent derogatory tradelines.

Police corruption is out of control. There are more arrests and convictions based on percentage versus the entire civilian population. The hiring process needs to get more strict recruiting police officer recruitment. Anyone with a high school diploma, GED, or two year junior college degree in law enforcement or 60 college semester hours can become a police officer. Here’s a video of Oklahoma police chief Carl Stout, the most Corrupt Police DEPARTMENT under the leadership of Chief Carl Stout.

https://youtu.be/9IGCyzLQR1U?si=5CjUfe_xnMZnGK2N

GCA Forums News – LIVE Market, Mortgage, and Housing Report: December 2, 2025, Just Before Noon U.S. Markets

Here’s what’s happening in the U.S. markets just before noon on Tuesday, December 2, 2025:

Stock Markets: All three major indexes are up—Dow by 0.4%, S&P 500 by 0.3%, and Nasdaq by 0.6%. Each is close to record highs.

10-Year Treasury Yield: Around 4.1%, which is a bit higher than yesterday.

Mortgage Rates: The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is between 6.1% and 6.3% nationwide, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.5%.

Gold: Gold is trading at approximately $4,200 per ounce, down 0.3% from the previous price but still near a six-week high.

Silver: Silver is trading between $57 and $59 per ounce, close to a record high after big gains in 202Jobs: Unemployment is around 4.4%, the highest in recent years during this election cycle. The recent federal government shutdown has made data less reliable. Growth and Inflation: U.S. GDP is expected to grow by 1.7% to 2.0% in 2025, with inflation likely in the high 2% range.

LIVE BREAKING NEWS WHICH SHOULD MATTER TO EVERY HOMEOWNER AND BORROWER

OECD: Global Growth, but 2026 Will Be the Key Year. The OECD expects global GDP to grow by 3.2% in 2025, with the U.S. growth rate at 2.0%. While the economy is still expanding, it is doing so at a slower pace than in 2024. This could mean fewer job opportunities and slower income growth for borrowers. Rising tariffs and trade tensions are pushing up inflation, which can reduce purchasing power and make goods, services, and mortgage payments more expensive. Real terms.

The OECD predicts that rate cuts will end by 2026, and policy rates will stay above pre-COVID levels. This means loan and mortgage costs could remain higher for longer, offering less relief to borrowers who don’t expect the very low rates from 2020-2021 to return soon. Higher rates will keep borrowing costs high for homeowners and buyers, affecting monthly payments and affordability, even if rates drop slightly.

Two Federal Reserve officials have recently commented: Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic notes that, while the labor market is cooling, inflation remains a significant risk and is above the Fed’s 2% target. He says we should not cut rates too quickly, as that might be counterproductive, as price pressures would build up.

Boston Fed President Susan Collins states that tariffs and trade disruptions in a fragmented global economy may further exacerbate inflation and contribute to increased interest rate volatility. November 2025 Financial Stability Report: the following ([Federal Reserve:

High levels of asset prices (equities, real estate, and debt securities).
High business and residential debt in certain areas.

Persistent concerns due to AI-induced market exuberance, geopolitical instability, and cyber threats. The Federal Reserve is moving carefully. Rate cuts are likely, but they’ll happen slowly. If your mortgage rate is 7% or 8%, refinancing could be beneficial, but consider whether the savings are worth it, as the cuts will be gradual. Borrowers should set realistic expectations and not wait for extremely low rates to return.

LIVE STOCK MARKET: DOW JONES, S&P 500 & NASDAQ Major Indexes

As of the middle of the trading day, **all three major U.S. indices are in the green:

Dow Jones Industrial Average:

Up 0.4%, trading near its record closing high of 48,000 set on November 12, 2025.

S&P 500: Up 0.3%. Approximately 300 stocks are down, resulting in a mixed but positive market breadth.

Nasdaq Advances for December

Most of Nasdaq’s 0.6% gain came from a rally in tech and crypto-linked stocks, which started after a rough tech rout in the first half of the month.

AI Bitcoin stabilized after sharp declines, trading between $80,000 and $90,000. This supported a rebound in crypto-related stocks. Infrastructure, BlackRock maintains a bearish outlook for long-term Treasuries in 2026.

Growth in the AI sector and stock market is leading to increased household spending and higher demand for luxury and larger homes.

However, if long-term Treasury yields remain high to finance AI and budget deficits, mortgage rates may also stay elevated. Even with Fed rate cuts, mortgage rates may not fall as much as expected, potentially impacting housing affordability.ds at 4.12%. The 10-year Treasury yield is 4.12%, up slightly as investors shift their allocations from bonds to riskier assets. The yield is expected to be 4–4.5% for much of 2025, and lower than the 2022-2023 predictions, as has been the case for much of 2025. (Goldman Sachs) The 10-year Treasury is the main benchmark for 30-year fixed mortgage rates. When interest rates rise, mortgage rates typically follow suit and increase accordingly.

LIVE Mortgage Rate Snapshot (National Different surveys show small differences, but the average is steady, consistent:

Thirty-year fixed-rate mortgage (conforming, owner-occupied):

6.2 to 6.3\% overall, according to Freddie Mac (6.23% weekly going to November 26 ) and like ratings from marketplace trackers. (Freddie Mac)

Fifteen-year fixed-rate mortgage:

5.5% on average nationwide. Current 30-year fixed rates are in the low to mid 6% range. That’s down from 7%, but still much higher than in 2020. levels.

What does this mean for an average borrower? If your current rate is over 7%, refinancing to the mid-6% range could lower your payments, especially if your credit or home value has improved. Lower payments can help your budget and free up money for other needs.

For first-time buyers, rates in the 6% range may seem high compared to 2020. But recent price drops in many markets can help offset these costs, making homes more affordable overall. The old price is $ 4,218. Spot gold is priced at $4,218 per ounce after reaching a six-week high, down 0.3%. Volume is slightly lower than yesterday, but open interest is rising, indicating new contracts are being opened. However, inflation is above 2%.

Continued strong demand from central banks and investors amid rising geopolitical and tariff risks.

Silver: Stealing the Show

Silver has surged to near-record levels, now just under $59 per ounce, more than double its previous price of $29.80.

Rampant demand for solar panels, EVs, and electronics.

Ongoing severe supply chain disruptions in London and other regions.

These price trends are particularly important for metals used in the housing and consumer product industries.

High silver prices are expected to increase costs for solar panels and electric vehicles, impacting:

Home solar versus system imports

DTI calculations during EV purchases.

Record gold prices underscore ongoing concerns about inflation. Persistent inflation may keep mortgage rates from falling as expected, potentially limiting improvements in affordability for homeowners and buyers.

There is increased demand for hard assets such as real estate.

LIVE ECONOMY: GROWTH, JOBS, & INFLATION Jobs: Some Slow Down, But Not A Collapse

Due to the current federal government shutdown, official BLS reports are limited. The Chicago Fed estimates unemployment is about 4.4% for October, the highest in about four years and a slight increase from September. The job market is showing signs of cooling. FS and job separations are at a small increase.

Context: The unemployment rate is ~4.0-4.1% for 2024. Thus, we are higher, but we aren’t at crisis levels. ([Bureau of Labor Statistics])

Growth & Inflation

U.S. GDP grew by about 2.8% in 2024. Growth of 1.7% to 2.0% is expected for 2025, indicating a slower but still positive trend.

The expected growth in the CPI is approximately 2.8%, which is slightly above the Fed’s target of 2% inflation for 2025.

Translating for Borrowers

The economy is growing, but at a slower pace.

* The Fed’s careful, rather than aggressive, approach to rate cuts.

* Long-term yields and mortgage rates are, for the moment, higher than what has been recorded over the past few years before COVID.

LIVE HOUSING & REAL ESTATE: COOLING PRICES, BUYER LEVERAGE

Sellers Cutting Prices as Market Cools

A new report highlights a shift in market leverage.

A weakening housing market is leading to significant discounts for buyers, as many sellers are cutting their asking prices to stay competitive. Many listings had price reductions in October. Homes that sell after a price cut stay on the market a median of five times longer than those priced right from the start. The number of delistings and price reductions is rising. Inventory levels are higher than those seen during the extremely tight conditions of the COVID-19 period.

By the end of 2025, buyers will have gained more control, especially in markets that overheated during the pandemic.

How Mortgage Rates And Price Cuts Affect Affordability

Prices are no longer on the rise as they were during the COVID period, and in some markets, they are either staying the same or experiencing small declines. (The World Property Journal)

Despite price cuts, buyers are affected by mortgage rates above 6%, resulting in much higher payments compared to 2020. GCA Forums Response:

First-time Buyers: How this market is different and what is in your favor:

More inventory to choose from

More price reductions

Less competition in the form of bidding wars on properties

In this market, careful underwriting is crucial to mitigate potential payment shocks resulting from current mortgage rates.

Move-up Buyers & Investors:

Home sellers may need to be more flexible on pricing or be prepared to offer concessions. Home buyers can benefit by negotiating closing costs with sellers. This can be combined with GCA’s flexible closing cost programs, which require manual underwriting and have no overlays.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR MORTGAGES AND REAL ESTATE, SIMPLY PUT

1. Rates have improved. Rates have improved, but they are not yet at historically low levels. They have improved to the mid-6s, but the 3s are not in sight.

Current rates make refinancing 7% or 8% loans a worthwhile consideration.

2. The housing market is shifting from a strong seller’s market to a more balanced environment.

Lower prices, longer market times, increased inventory, and improved negotiating power for buyers. (The World Property Journal)

3. The Fed is worried about inflation and financial stability, not just growth

The Fed’s approach is measured and gradual, not a rapid decline. (Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta)

4. Precious metals screaming inflation uncertainty

Gold=4200/oz. Gold at $4,200 per ounce and silver at $59 per ounce indicate continued investor interest. wers with issues (low credit, recent lates, high DTI)

Many large banks are tightening their lending standards. Lenders like Gustan Cho Associates are still losing aggressively within agency and non-QM guidelines, manual underwrites, Chapter 13, recent credit events, and more.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEVcnkjGVpk

NATIONAL BREAKING LIVE NEWS REPORT- MONDAY NOVEMBER 10 NOVEMBER 10 2025

GCA Forums News- Live Housing, Mortgage and Rates, Economy, Elections, and Political Crisis

• As of Monday evening, November 10 November 10, the country’s finances, mortgage rates, housing data, and politics have all been impacted simultaneously.
• Here is your GCA Forums focused LIVE national breaking news.
• Update concerning the LIVE stock market data, interest and mortgage rates, economic numbers, job data, and rapidly changing mortgage and housing forecasts, along with the fast-paced politics surrounding homebuyers and homeowners.

DOW JONES AND STOCK MARKET LIVE DATA AND FIGURESLIVE STOCK MARKET & DOW JONES, NASDAQ, SP 500 UPDATES

• As the government shutdown approaches resolution, Wall Street traders have shifted their focus to interest rate cuts, driving the market higher.

The figures as of the close on November 10, 2025:

DOW JONES INDUSTRIAL AVERAGE:

Marking another record zone, the closing total of the Dow achieved was 47,330.42, an increase from 46,996.71 on Friday.

LIVE S&P 500:

The S&P 500 finished this week at 6,817, a slight increase over the previous week.

LIVE NASDAQ:

• The tech-dominated Nasdaq Composite finished at 23,340, despite turbulence in tech stocks.
• Commentators are stating that stocks rallied on hopes that Congress is close to ending the shutdown and that inflation will be 3%.

LIVE MORTGAGE RATES & INTEREST RATESLIVE INTEREST RATES: 10-YEAR TREASURY YIELD

• About 4.1%, and throughout the days, it has remained around this interest rate.
• The 10-year US Treasury yield is considered the standard for 30-year fixed mortgage rates.
• The Fed and market trackers have recently indicated the rate is hovering around 4.11%.
• While this remains below the peaks observed in 2023-2024, it is still high enough to affect housing affordability for many purchasers, as well as to keep mortgage rates elevated.

LIVE MORTGAGE RATES TODAY – 30-YEAR AND 15-YEAR FIXED

• As of Bankrate’s daily survey for Monday, November 10, 2025: November 10-year fixed mortgage rate: 6.26%.
• Average 15-year fixed mortgage rate: 5.62%.
• Rates have increased this week as well, but remain under the peaks for late 2023 and early 2024.
• Lenders are closely monitoring reprices each time the Treasury yield shifts due to changes in inflation data and the Fed’s rate-cut expectations related to the headlines surrounding the shutdown.

To most GCA borrowers, specifically FHA, VA, non-QM, and DSCR investors, these levels indicate:

• The potential for payment shock after refinancing from the old loans is priced at 3% to 4%.
• More strained debt-to-income ratios, even in lower-cost regions.
• A sustained effort to pursue creative non-QM products, buy-downs, and APR temporaries instead of the non-existent “ideal” rate.”

REAL-TIME ECONOMIC INDICATORS: GDP, CPI, INFLATION, EMPLOYMENT

Real-Time GDP Economic Growth Update: The economy rebounds in 2025

• In the second quarter of 2025, the real GDP grew at a rebounding rate, rebounding from the contraction experienced in the previous quarter—Ced in 2025-Q1.
• This marks the beginning of recovery from the slump.
• Private economists, such as those at the Atlanta Fed, are predicting 4% GDP growth.
• Although progress remains slow, growth is evident.

Real-Time CPI and Inflation Update

• Most have anticipated September 2025 reports on the CPI to be released after the economy reopens, so that vital indicators could be measured.
• The CPI is most summarized at the Bureau of Economic Analysis’s assertion of 3% as of September.

Core CPI (excluding food and energy) year-over-year 3.0%

• The monthly CPI in September increased by 0.3%.
• This is sharper than the Fed’s 2% goal, but still a significant distance away from triple digits, which was the case during the past decade.

No matter how far the markers pivot, consumers still feel the pain:

• Food prices increased by 3.1% over the past year.
• Energy is mixed, but the cost of gasoline and other types increased a lot a few months ago.
• Shelter inflation is high, but prices remain very high for both renters and homeowners.

LIVE JOBS AND UNEMPLOYMENT NUMBERS

• The BLS jobs report for August is on hold due to the extended period needed for the shutdown.

The most recent complete report states:

• The unemployment rate in August 2025 was 4.3%.
• Nonfarm payrolls: In August, added a mere 22,000 jobs, indicating sluggish demand in the employment.
• The Chicago Fed reports that, given other economic and employment indicators, the unemployment rate for October 2025 is estimated to be 4.35-4.40%.
• This is the highest in central estimates of more than 4 years.

The combination of the extended period needed for the shutdown and the gently softening, but not crashing, job cycle heightens concern for:

• Slower wage growth.
• There is an increasing financial burden for lower-income earners.
• If the economic slowdown worsens, there will be an increase in delinquent payments and defaults on credit cards, automobiles, and possibly housing.

LIVE HOUSING AND MORTGAGE MARKET FORECASTSHOUSING MARKET LIVE: PRICES, INVENTORY, AND AFFORDABILITY

National housing data show a two-speed market:

• Many metropolitan areas continue to experience home prices at or near record highs, particularly in areas where inventory is limited.
• Higher mortgage rates and economic uncertainty are finally forcing some price cuts and longer days on market in marginal areas.

When it comes to 2025–2026 housing forecasts, most analysts continue to expect:

• Real estate prices are expected to remain relatively stable nationwide, while inflation-adjusted prices are likely to decrease.

Increased regional divergence:

• Demand for affordable housing in job-rich regions is expected to increase.
• Demand will decrease in high-tax, expensive regions and downtown areas.
• The higher demand for FHA, VA, non-QM, and DSCR investor loans is expected to persist as buyers continue to navigate through high interest rates and stringent bank underwriting.

This economic environment is helpful for **GCA borrowers in the following ways:

• FHA/VA manual underwriting, as well as non-QM, bank statement, and DSCR loans, will be easier to access for borrowers who do not meet the income thresholds for traditional bank loans.
• Monitoring property tax assessments and homeowners’ insurance, which are rapidly increasing as a proportion of the monthly mortgage payment.
• Pre-approvals and TBD underwriting for buyers will make it easier for them to lock in a purchase sooner.

LIVE AUTO MARKET: REPOSSESSIONS, CAR DEALERSHIPS, AND SKYROCKETING AUTO PRICES

Despite not having any new November repossession data, the earlier 2025 reports from the Fed and credit bureaus still show:

• Mortgage loans are in delinquency at the highest rate for borrowers with lower credit scores, among others.
• The institution offers auto loans to subprime borrowers under aggressive terms and has extended them for several years.

At the same time:

• Prices for new and used cars remain stubbornly high, despite having eased from the pandemic peak of 2020.
• The average new vehicle transaction price remains above the 2020 levels and is significantly higher than those of 2020.
• Additionally, records confirm that households are struggling, as those who are overextended are more likely to miss payments.
• Payments associated with vehicles are currently at an all-time high.
• Recent quarters have seen wholesale units hit and used chains, as well as big public dealerships from companies like CarMax, undergo increasing volatility in earnings receipts and borrowings due to diminishing wholesale costs and reluctant debtors.
• While “Billion in losses” headlines reflect the economic outlook, the structural weakness of the market and the auto finance market is the full story.
• This is an increasingly significant problem for outstanding consumer balances and lenders in the looming situation of rising unemployment.

The ticket prices of the precious metals live on moneymetals.com as of the moment are as follows:

• The wave of political anxiety as the shutdown approaches day 40 is starting to get more attention.
• As for today, November 10, 2025.
• November 10per ounce (LIVE GOLD): Around 4,080 to 4,110 per ounce, up around 2% on the day and more than 55% year-to-date, per various trackers.
• Silver price per ounce (LIVE SILVER): Hovered around 50 dollars, with several sources reporting 49.9 to 50.5 and about 3 to 4% gains today alone.

Gold and silver buying are being used to hedge against:

Government Shutdown.

• The possibility of mistaken policies regarding inflation and rate cuts.
• The political mess around immigration, sanctuary cities, and the New York mayoral transition.

Live Trump Administration on Government Shutdown and the Economy

Update on Government Policy: Deal Is Close, But Not Finished

• The country is in the midst of the longest federal government shutdown in US history, now lasting over 40 days.

Over the weekend and to Monday:

• The US Senate voted 60 to 40 to move forward with a compromise bill that funds the government until the end of January and provides back pay to federal workers.
• The contract guarantees a future vote on expanding subsidies for the Affordable Care Act, angering progressive Democrats who claim the party leadership caved.
• House members have now been instructed to prepare, as Speaker Mike Johnson plans to convene a special session on this bill.
• The Trump administration stated that the President disagreed and would be open to signing the bill, but continued to press Congress for more drastic alterations to health care subsidies and expenditures.
• Economists estimate that the shutdown is reducing the economy by approximately one-fourth of a quarter’s GDP, stifling the revenue of small contractors that rely on the government, and harming unpaid federal employees and the public who rely on these services.

LIVE POLITICAL NEWS: ICE, BORDER PATROL, AND SANCTUARY CITIES BORDER ENFORCEMENT AND SANCTUARY CITY CRACKDOWN

Increased immigration enforcement is a hallmark of the Trump administration:

• A new Executive Order 14287, Protecting American Communities from Criminal Aliens, and a Justice Department list of sanctuary jurisdictions center cities such as Chicago and Los Angeles under ICE’s fire for their restrictive cooperation policies.
• The administration has also used National Guard deployments into cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, Memphis, and Washington, D.C., under the guise of supporting the enforcement of crime and immigration, raising significant legal and civil liberties concerns.
• Concurrently, border data has undergone sharp changes.
• From claiming approximately 238,000 illegal border apprehensions in FY 2025, down from 2.1 million the previous year, DHS now boasts border encounters at their lowest annual level since the early 1970s.
• The new, post-2025 record low of **roughly 30,561 total encounters nationwide occurs in October 2025, with an 80% drop from 2024.
• Critics argue that these figures overlook humanitarian concerns and advocate for more intrusive enforcement methods. At the same time, the administration claims that the strategy is finally securing the border.

LIVE ELECTION NUMBERS: ZOHRAN MAMDANI ELECTED NEW YORK CITY MAYORFIRST DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST MAYOR OF NEW YORK CITY

In the stunning upset of the week, Zohran Mamdni, a 34-year-old Democratic socialist and state assembly member from Queens, won the 2025 New York City mayoral election.

Important election figures:

• Zohran Mamdani (Democratic / Working Families): 50.4% of the votes.
• Andrew Cuomo (Independent Fight and Deliver): 41.6%.
• Curtis Sliwa (Republican): 7.1%.
• Voter turnout exceeded 2 million, which is the highest in decades.

Mamdani will be the:

• First Muslim and First South Asian mayor of New York City.
• The youngest mayor of the city in more than a century.
• First democratic socialist mayor of a major city in the US in contemporary times.

WHAT MAMDANI’S WIN MEANS FOR NATIONAL POLITICS AND THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

Mamdani had a very ambitious and aggressive agenda in his campaign that included:

• Rent freezes and stronger tenant protections.
• A minimum wage of $30 was instituted in the city.
• Wealthy taxpayers will have to share the burden of universal childcare, free bus transportation, and more affordable housing for low-income individuals.
• Nobody is more concerned than the moderates and conservatives.
• Many say he is the class warfare mayor, and they say capital will leave and public safety will decline.
• People like former congressman George Santos have publicly said they are leaving the city because of his evil agenda.

The attack on Mamdani is deeply symbolic of the Trump-Vance regime. This attack proves and reminds us that,

• There are unbridgeable cultural rifts that separate the largest cities in the country from the more conservative or neutral areas.
• Democratic socialist candidates have a reasonable chance of winning big office positions when the country is suffering from high housing costs and a wide income gap.
• The legal position of stripping Mamdani of citizenship has been suggested as an extreme response. According to legal experts, as reported by Al Jazeera, it is guaranteed to fail.
• Certainly, the harsh treatment of republicans is the only response that comes to their minds.

LIVE TURNING POINT USA UPDATE: CANDACE OWENS, ERIKA KIRK, AND JD VANCETHE CANDIDATE NARRATIVE

The conservative, youth wing of the movement called Turning Point USA has totally collapsed into itself with the assassination of their leader, Charlie Kirk, while speaking at Utah Valley University on September 10 September 10

• Candace Owens is in hot water after publishing a supposed leaked text in which Kirk is heard telling his friends that he is in danger and will be assassinated.
• Law enforcement has arrested a 22-year-old suspect, and while publicly dismissing the involvement of foreign governments, the speculation continues.

### ERIKA KIRK, JD VANCE, AND THE MEDIA STORM

Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk’s widow, has surfaced:

• She is reportedly taking control of key TPUSA structures, as well as major fundraising arms.
• After saying that, she noticed a resemblance to her deceased spouse; there was a highly circulated emotional clip of her with Vice President JD Vance.
• They hugged at a memorial, sparking a great deal of discussion.
• Erika has called the criticism of her public grief and faith process brutal and unfair scrutiny.
• She hopes to be left alone and not have her actions and phrases scrutinized rigorously.
• Various social media angles have made attempts to fabricate personal scandalous allegations regarding some key conservative members.
• The major outlets have failed to produce any credible evidence; therefore, we will not engage in speculation.
• GCA Forums’ passion is verified reality, not internet hysteria.

LIVE GROCERY, CAR, AND COST-OF-LIVING PAIN

• Most households feel that inflation hasn’t stopped, even though the CPI has averaged 3% over the last year.
• Over the past year, food prices have increased by 3%, with prices for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs rising by more than 5%.
• Expenditures on electricity and gas have increased year on year, and fuel costs have recently spiked.
• Pending on cars in the absence of paid and unpaid overdue payments, alongside the increase in auto insurance packs, adds additional pressure.
• This translates into spending a lower portion of one’s income towards housing.
• Increased spending on debt, cash-out refinances, restructuring, and non-QM mortgages has become a common theme during consultations.

LIVE GUSTAN CHO ASSOCIATES AND SUBSIDIARY UPDATE

As other businesses are on hold, Gustan Cho Associates and its subsidiaries continue to operate in real-time on the front lines of the Capital and housing markets.

GCA FORUMS NEWS LIVE SNAPSHOT – NOVEMBER 1,0, 2025

FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional Loans No Lender Overlays:

• Many banks have tightened their procedures.
• Overlays on borrowed money due to credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, and even manual underwriting are denial zones for an unprecedented number of banks.
• Not GCA: They continue to assist borrowers who are denied elsewhere.

Non-QM and DSCR Loans Increasingly Popular:

• Investors and self-employed borrowers squeezed by higher rates are turning to bank statement DSCR and alternative income products, and do not employ annual tax return underwriting.
• Neither do self-employed borrowers.

GCA Forums to Broaden Educational Boundary:

• GCA Forums is for daily live updates on housing, mortgages, and the economy.
• Stock market and Washington news are for traders and policymakers.
• GCA Forums News has a different model.
• GCA is for the rest of us.

Strive for Uncommonly High Fast Closing Ratios and TBD Underwriting:

• Gustan Cho Associates remains unwavering in its philosophy of TBD underwriting and fast close strategy, which favors GCA’s.
• It makes for a decisive choice on which property to buy.

WHAT THIS ALL MEANS FOR HOMEOWNERS AND HOME BUYERS

As of November 10, 2025, November 10 years to be in a bizarre concoction of these things:

• All-time high stock indices.
• All-time highs for gold and silver.
• Inflation remains at around 3 percent.
• A cooling job market and growing uncertainty.
• A housing market with high mortgage rates and scarce inventory.
• Political polarization and fierce immigration enforcement.
• Democratic socialist mayor-elect of New York City and conservative chaos at TPUSA.

The situation for borrowers and homeowners is easy to summarize:

• Stability is not guaranteed: Scheduling a home purchase based on anticipation of rate or home price changes is a poor idea.
• Winning is preparation: Tackle credit, gather documents, and investigate all possible financing options early.
• Knowledge is power: GCA participants can utilize Gustan Cho Associates and the GCA forums to assess live housing, mortgage, and macroeconomic events, obtaining timely evaluations.
• The members of Gustan Cho Associates are ready to work with you to explain how today’s live mortgage rates and live economic data, coupled with recent political shifts, can help you buy, refinance, or invest.
• We share real numbers—not headlines.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUYkiEEeox0

What is going on with the price per silver per ounce? It broke out $60.00 per ounce. Does anyone know what we don’t know? Just several months ago, price per silver per ounce was under $30.00 per ounce? I hold silver bars, coins, and bullions. Can anyone give us some explanation on what is going on with silver?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbRzbGargaU

GCA Forums News – Live Daily Report: December 3, 2025

Summary

The Dow Jones is up 47,600 on the day, as investors try to come to terms with the new dip in private-sector jobs and the Fed’s prediction of rate cuts.

Mortgage Rates are still up 6% in 30-year mortgages, and most national surveys are still under 7%.

Gold is up to $4,220 oz. Silver is near $59 oz, both at near-record highs.

Housing is softening in most markets, but the percentage decline is only 1–2% over the past year.

Politics and law enforcement: The new FBI Director, Kash Patel, is facing controversies involving his leadership. Dan Bongino and some MAGA supporters hold conflicting positions. Candace Owens is also involved in recent contradictions, including disputes with Erika Kirk and the Kirk family.

LIVE Markets & ratesDow Jones & Financial Markets

As of late, Eastern Morning time. The Dow Jones Industrial Average as of now is at 47,588 and is now up 110 points in \ ( + 0.2 to 0.3% ).

Following the receipt of some alarming news regarding the employment rate, Wall Street dipped but remained relatively steady.

The news indicated that the rate of job growth had slowed.

Many traders believed that this indicated the Fed would decrease rates in the near future.

Major European indices and the S&P 500. American stock futures are now slightly in the green.

There was a period previously when the global bond and cryptocurrency markets were quite volatile, but these markets have since stabilized.

Significant chief macro factors:

The yield on the US 10-year Treasury bond is now just above four percent.

Earlier this year, the yield was 4.8 percent.

The Fed decreased the policy rate at the end of October.

The target rate is now between 3.75% and 4.00%.

Market analysts are speculating whether the Fed will further decrease the rate at the FOMC meeting on December 10.

Inflation is approximately three percent year-over-year.

While inflation is currently stable, it remains above the Fed’s target of 2 percent.

The unemployment rate is currently 4.4 percent.

While this represents an increase from a year ago, it remains a relatively low unemployment rate.

LIVE economic data: jobs, growth, and Fed watch

The most talked about economic issue today is the ADP Private Payroll Report. ADP indicates that in November, private employers in the US cut 32,000 jobs. This was a significant miss in terms of the jobs that were expected to be gained. This represents the biggest contraction of jobs in the US since the beginning of 2023.”

How American Workers Getting Paid More Rationalizes U.S. Wage Stagnation

Higher pay helps the economy overall.

But higher pay does not solve wage stagnation.

Workers are being paid more on average in 2023.

However, pay increases still may not boost real income.

With wage inflation, increased pay is offset by rising living costs.

In 2023, the average wage increase is approximately 4.4% for those who remain in their current jobs.

Employers now spend more to keep existing employees.

Employers continue to struggle with raising pay for those who are losing their jobs.

Therefore, it is much more challenging for employers to hire than to fire, which has led to the use of the term ‘no-hire, no-fire’ to describe current conditions.

Borrowers and Homeowners

More evidence is emerging that fewer jobs, even during harsh economic conditions, do not necessarily lead to a decline in overall employment, as other factors offset the decrease. If the condition persists, it is possible that Long-Term Housing Rates will drop in the event of a more severe economic recession.

Lower mortgage rates tend to be seen for shorter time periods during more severe recessions, while less severe conditions result in higher rates that persist for longer periods. Stable economic conditions make it ideal for residents to obtain a mortgage.

Housing long-term rates will drop in more severe recession conditions.

More jobs during difficult times don’t always mean a recession.

For now, the data suggest that the economy is in a slow-growth phase rather than a full recession. Update

A report today highlighted that 30-year fixed mortgage rates have landed slightly under 6.25%:

30-year fixed**, conforming is pegged between 6.0%–6.3% depending on the survey.

15-year fixed is arriving at 5.3%–5.6%.

A 30-year refinance is slightly higher than the purchase rates but remains pegged in the mid-6 % range.

For the same borrower profile, Government-backed loans (FHA, VA, USDA) typically price slightly below conventional loans, and non-QM loans are higher, especially for lower credit scores and recent credit events.

All GCA Borrowers

Today’s rates are materially better than the peak in 2023, especially for those stuck in the 7.5–8% range.

Marginal is still, and will always remain, an option, but pricing and documentation requirements will be stringent.

This is where **manual This is where manual underwriting and lenders without overlays becomes important.:

There is a Slowdown, But No Crash is Coming

Recent housing data show a **mixed, but slowly improving market:

National home prices are still increasing, but only 1.2-1.7% over the year, and approximately 75% of metros within the U.S still see annual increases.

Connecticut, New Jersey, Alaska, West Virginia, and Wyoming experience greater positive growth, while prices in Florida and Washington, D.C. are decreasing.

However, more than half of U.S. homes have had their prices decrease over the last year.

Predicting the Future: Zillow and others anticipate modest, yet positive, growth in prices.

1% over the following year.

The number of sold homes is also predicted to increase as mortgage rates slowly decrease over the next 24 months.

Summary for home buyers and owners:

This is not the extreme buyer’s market from 2021-2022.

Home buyers now have increased leverage in price and repair negotiations, although financial considerations remain a primary focus and reversionary equity of homes has worsened inflation.

The value of homes and the interest rates of loans have risen. Inflating home values and interest rates of loans have made money refinances and home equity lines of credit attractive due to their ability to be used to cover credit debt.

Gold and silver prices are skyrocketing.

Silver and gold, skyrocketing in value, are causing a lot of buzz in the world of commodities:

The value of gold has reached a record high, nearing $ 4,220, with a value increase of approximately 59 percent in the past year.

The value of silver has also reached a record high. It’s close to $59 and has been increasing at a higher percentage than gold.

The reason behind the rise in gold and silver prices remains unclear, and various analyses are being conducted to gain a better understanding of the situation. The inflation above 2 percent is driving the increase.

Others expect gold and silver prices to increase due to a scarcity of both materials.

Some are in higher demand, with a focus on silver as the more scarce resource needed for solar and electronic applications.

For many homes with gold and silver in their possession, the value of their gold and silver enhances the net worth of their home.

Borrowers should keep in mind, however, that because gold and silver are highly volatile, they shouldn’t expect to rely on the value of gold and silver for short-term down payments.

Borrowers should also keep in mind that the metals of gold and silver will most likely experience a sudden price swing.

For homes that are on record files, the gold and silver in question would be considered extra in terms of completeness of the record within the file set for the home.

Consumers: Record Holiday Shopping And Rising Debt Concerns

People are still spending a significant amount of money, despite households continuing to feel the financial strain.

Cyber Monday shopping is expected to reach a record high, with nearly $14.2 billion in spending.

Total sales this holiday shopping season are expected to exceed $1 trillion.

As reported by ABC and PBS, credit card debt is increasing, along with the number of people missing payments, and more people are using buy now, pay later options to stretch their shopping dollars.

Impacts this has on the mortgages:

If cardholders are building debt, PAID LATE, and their current DTI is above borrowing parameters,

THE MARGINAL FHA and conventional borrowers could be negatively impacted.

There is a lot of scrutiny on 60 Days and More delinquencies.

Holiday short-term borrowing intended for shopping could lead individuals to have their approval status dropped early in 2026.

Politics, Law Enforcement & Headlines: Kash Patel: FBI Jet & SWAT Detail Under Analysis

Kash Patel is currently embroiled in at least three overlapping controversies:

House Democrats are currently investigating whether Patel is misusing the FBI’s private jet travel for personal use, including travel related to country singer Alexis Wilkins.

Other reports indicate Patel is receiving criticism for reallocating FBI SWAT team members who are assigned to Wilkins for protective duties, and colleagues raised concerns about providing such extensive security to a private, non-government spouse.

Patel has publicly defended his actions in various interviews with FOX News, stating that he is entitled to a personal life,and he claims his travel and security arrangements are justified as policy-compliant

Notably,

Several accounts referenced in the media about Patel’s alleged lifestyle have been walked back.

Most recently, MSNBC issued a correction for stating on air that Patel spent significantly more time outside of the office at nightclubs than he did at FBI headquarters; ultimately, they admitted that the network had not verified this information.

Considering that some of the more colorful details being discussed, such as the various travel stops, the types of events, and the amount of money involved, lack strong public documentation, there is a need to distinguish between documented allegations and investigations, as compared to rumors and social media gossip.

Dan Bongino: Deputy Director of the FBI and Twitch Assaults

Dan Bongino is a deputy FBI Director who had just assumed the role earlier this year and is getting increasing scrutiny himself:

In a profile by The Guardian, speculation arose about Dan’s future with the company, leading to widespread concern within the organization after he stormed out of a meeting discussing the Jeffrey Epstein case and was considering resignation.

More recently, extreme right media and MAGA influencers have roasted Bongino after he gave a critique of Miranda Devine, a columnist for the New York Post; some of these people are accusing him of being a traitor to the pro-Trump media.

The recent rumors around resignations and mixing of the top management will not affect the pricing of the mortgage than they already are; however, they will have the following:

People will have less confidence in the Federal law enforcement of this country.

Modify the guidelines for additional investigations into Financial Fraud and other related crimes.

Increase the negative influence on those who are already overburdened.

Financing and Interest Rates

Candace Owens and Erika Kirk: Another Feud on the Right

On the right media, Candace Owens is once again in the news due to Erika Kirk, wife of far-right activist Charlie Kirk, and now CEO of Turning Point USA:

Kirk’s husband, Charlie, was murdered earlier this year, and she has since assumed the leadership role and broadened her media presence in the ministry.

Owens has publicly, on social media and on her podcast, questioned elements of the leadership in TPUSA and has been probing the details surrounding Kirk’s death and Erika’s actions.

Outlets labeled these as controversial and unproven.

U.S. and other countries’ media coverage state that:

Owens has made very serious, unsubstantiated allegations, conspiracy theories, and
The Times of India reports that a war of words is being waged for and against Kirk, as well as for and against Owens.

For GCA Forums readers, this is largely a political feud, not a financial one.** This demonstrates:

The splintering of conservative media,

The impact of unverified allegations on the formation of public opinion, and

The need to verify allegations rather than assume a factual basis for a claim, especially when serious allegations of criminal conduct are involved.

What It All Means for Homebuyers, Homeowners, & Investors

Rates can be better, but not “cheap.

Getting lower than 6.25 percent fixed 30-year rates is better than the 2023 spike, but they are still high enough that payment shock is real for first-time buyers coming from a lower rent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUjQjhxTZJk

Saturday, November 8, 2025 – Great Community Authority Forums LIVE National Economic & Political Breaking News Report

Dateline: Saturday, November 8, 2025 – 10:00 a.m. Central

While it’s Saturday and the markets are closed, the damage from the week is unforgettable. With a grinding federal shutdown, rising auto repossession along with foreclosure activities, and high political tensions regarding immigration and sanctuary cities, many Americans are asking the same question:

Is it a slow-motion recession, or is a recession a rough patch in a very uneven recovery?

Here is your text-only, no-chart LIVE wrap-up for GCA Forums readers, composed with the most recent data available this morning.

DOW, S&P 500, NASDAQ LIVE STOCK MARKET NEWS

As of Friday, November 7, 2025, close:

• Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA): Closed at 46,797.03 for a slight daily gain after early losses.
• S&P 500: Finished close to 6,728.80 and gained 0.1% on Friday.
• Investors cautiously returned to large caps, despite quality large caps, 725-751.
• NASDAQ: Closed at 23,004.54 and logged a 0.2% daily drop while recording its worst week since April.
• This was a result of a sharp pullback in high AI and tech.

As described, the week was wobbly, with the **Dow and S&P 500 squeezing out gains on Friday, while tech led the downside.

The key concerns are:

• Disconnected valuations in AI infrastructure giants.
• Prolonged federal shutdown.
• Slow growth with sticky inflation.

LIVE GOLD & SILVER PRICES PER OUNCE

Over the last week, gold and silver have gained. The global economy, and most importantly, the Western economies, are in a downturn. This is why we are seeing gold and silver prices increase.

As of early Saturday, November 8, 2025 (New York time):

• Spot Gold: Approximately $4,000 per ounce (most recent quotes around $4,001 per ounce before a slight pullback).
• Spot Silver: Trading around $48.3–$48.5 per ounce (range is $48–$49 per ounce).

There are concerning global issues leading to rising prices for gold:

• The economic shutdown sparked fear.
• Expectations for rate cuts later into 2026.
• Global political risks, including immigration conflicts and election uncertainty.
• Gold and silver have suffered brief dips after sharp run-ups.
• However, 2025 has been dramatically higher compared to recent years.

LIVE INTEREST RATES & MORTGAGE RATES

While there is volatility, borrowing costs are off their recent peaks.

• The average national 30-year fixed mortgage rate is approximately 6.15% as of now, according to mortgage rates tracked by Zillow.
• Average 15-year fixed mortgage: Pretty close to 5.57%.
• Freddie Mac weekly survey: Reported a 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.22% on Thursday, November 6, 2025, and this confirms a slight trend from the peak interest rates this year.
• Concurrently, Larry Summers, the former Treasury Secretary, warns about a potential for higher mortgage rates in the future as a consequence of America’s unsustainable deficit path.
• This is due to a decline in market sentiment regarding the US economy.

What Does This Mean For Borrowers and Investors of Gustan Cho Associates?

• Currently, the rates remain high compared to pre-COVID levels.
• However, they are better than the worst period of 2023–2024.
• Furthermore, there is a very real possibility of another spike in the future if inflation and deficits remain unmanaged.

Current CPI, Inflation, GDP, and Economic Growth Figures

Current Inflation Figures (CPI)

As of the final data recordings (before the data blackout due to the shutdown), the most recent December CPI data includes:

• Headline Inflation (CPI) Year over Year, September 2025: +3.0%.
• Core (excluding food and energy): +3.0% Year over Year.
• Food CPI Year over Year: +3.1%.
• Energy CPI Year over Year: +2.8%.
• Non-government sources summarized the US inflation as at 3% as of September 2025.
• This inflation rate affects budgets, but compared to the inflation of the peak periods earlier this decade, it is much better.

GDP: Is the US in a Recession

As of now, no. At least not in the classic sense.

• Real GDP (annualized) for Q2 2025 is +3.8% growth following a -0.6% contraction in Q1.
• The Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow estimate for Q3 2025, as of November 6, is +4.0% annualized.

Nominally, the economy is growing at a solid rate, even if many families feel as though they are in a recession.

Current Unemployment, Jobs, and Consumer Sentiment

Due to the government shutdown, official jobs data are not being released, but alternative measures are being released.

Unemployment rate (Chicago Fed real-time estimate):

• Unemployment is expected to be 4.4% in October, a slight increase from the 4.3% reported in August.
• Consumer confidence (University of Michigan): The consumer confidence index has fallen to a 3.5-year low, ranging from 50.3 to 50.4.
• This is extremely close to record pessimism.
• In the 73-year history of the survey, it has never recorded the Current Conditions Gauge at this low level.

These surveys expressed:

• Shutdown worries.
• Concerns about losing jobs.
• Anger about prices that never came back down.
• Recession from below captures the feeling of many working households.
• On the book cover, the economy appears to be doing well.
• GDP is growing and unemployment is low (it is below 4% in many areas of the US).

Housing Stress is Rising

• The economy is often growing. However, it is glaringly obvious that the pressure in the housing market is growing:

Foreclosure Stats (Q3 2025):

• In Q3 2025, 72,000 properties were foreclosed, which is 16% higher than the previous year.
• In September 2025, 23,761 properties were foreclosed, representing a 20% increase from the previous year.
• Thirty-five thousand six hundred foreclosures were filed in September alone, representing a 20% increase compared to the same month in 2024.
• In Q3 2025, over 100,000 properties were foreclosed, and one in every 4,000 housing units in the US lost housing.
• Parts of Florida, Nevada, Indiana, South Carolina, and Delaware have higher-than-average stress.
• New York and Illinois also have higher-than-average stress levels in their major metropolitan areas.
• The current situation includes increasing foreclosure filings, declining savings, and higher debt burdens.

AUTO REPOSSESSIONS: STRESS BACK TO 2009 LEVELS

Auto debt, which is one of the most clearly defined risk factors, includes:

• 60+ day auto loan delinquencies.
• Approximately 1.38% in Q1 2025, above 1.33% at the peak of the Great Recession in 2009.
• Subprime delinquencies: Approximately 6.6%, the highest level since the mid-1990s, when data first became available.

Car Repossessions

• Approximately 1.73 million vehicles were repossessed last year, representing a 16% year-over-year increase, a 43% rise from 2022, and the highest level since 2009.
• If current trends continue, analysts state that 2025 repossessions could reach or exceed levels seen during the financial crisis.
• For many working-class households, losing the car = losing the job.
• This is where the mass recession is forming, quietly, while foreclosures also start to rise.
• This is the recessing period, and current macroeconomic data is highly positive, which remains mesmerizing to many.

Government Shutdown: The Harms of Data Blackout and Economic Damage

The longer the federal government shutdown goes on, the more damage it will inflict:

• Economists believe the shutdown is costing the US economy billions of dollars each week, and this is affecting federal workers, federal contractors, air travel, and overall confidence.
• The Transportation Secretary has warned that the cuts to airline flights may reach 20% at big airports if the shutdown continues as it is.
• Currently, the FAA has ordered a 4% cut, which will increase to 10% next week, and is affecting air traffic control.
• The official jobs report and other important documents have been taxed, delayed, or canceled.
• This forces the market and the analysts to rely on forecasts generated by the Chicago Fed along with other private data providers.
• Consumers are this pessimistic.
• It shouldn’t come as a surprise.

LIVE POLITICAL NEWS: ICE, SANCTUARY CITIES & STATES

Political news, especially involving immigration and sanctuary policies, is in the headlines again:  

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

Authors of the report say that aggressive ICE operations combined with threats of cutting funding to sanctuary jurisdictions may destabilize local budgets and exacerbate fears within communities, particularly those in Chicago, Los Angeles, Boston, Portland, and New York City, with mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani.

CHICAGO & THE STATE OF ILLINOIS: DEBT, PENSIONS & DOWNTURN FEARSChicago: Pensions & Debt Devouring the Budget

Chicago’s fiscal issues are under a harsher spotlight:

• The city’s budget has grown by roughly 40% since 2019, but much of that growth is being consumed by pension and debt service costs, rather than new services.
• This week, S&P revised Chicago’s outlook from stable to negative, warning that pension obligations and debt could drag the city into deeper financial trouble without reform.

This downgrade comes as Chicago is also a targeted sanctuary jurisdiction, wrestling with:

• Increased costs for social services.
• Unpredictable funding from the federal government.
• Foreclosures and evictions in certain neighborhoods.

Illinois: Executive Orders, Cuts & Pre-Recession Posturing

At the state level, Governor J.B. Pritzker has moved to brace Illinois for a potential downturn:

• An executive order has been issued instructing state agencies to determine how to reserve up to 4% of FY 2026 general-fund spending and restrain discretionary spending due to what he refers to as Trump’s economic disasters.
• According to policy analysts, although the FY 2026 budget is $55.1 billion, Illinois still faces considerable pension and debt pressures that will prevent the state from focusing on other issues and will become its other priorities.

For homeowners and investors in Chicago and Illinois, the combination of the following is a considerable risk that will likely reflect in property taxes, service cuts, or both:

• Slowing Revenue Growth.
• Increasing Pension Costs.
• Potential Federal Funding Fights.

BREAKING ELECTION NEWS: ZOHRAN MAMDANI WINS NYC MAYORAL RACE

The biggest political story of the week has to be the New York City mayoral election:

• Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old democratic socialist, has been elected the 111th mayor of New York City, making him the city’s first Muslim and first South Asian mayor, as well as the youngest in over a century.
• Mamdani won with 50.4% of the vote, surpassing former governor Andrew Cuomo (running as an independent) and Republican Curtis Sliwa.
• Voter turnout exceeded 2 million, the highest since 1969.

Reaction & Panic

Responses to the election are polarized:

• Progressive voters see the result as a collective exhale, cheering rent freezes, higher minimum wages, and higher taxes on the wealthy.
• Conservatives, including President Trump, have called Mamdani a communist and warned that New York is losing sovereignty with potential cuts in federal funding if the city defies federal priorities, especially on immigration and public safety.
• New York City is a major sanctuary jurisdiction and a financial capital.

Mamdani’s win is interconnected with:

• ICE enforcement politics,
• sanctuary city lawsuits,
• Investors worry about taxes, regulations, and the business climate in America’s largest city.

CONTROVERSY WITH CANDACE OWENS, ERIKA KIRK, JD VANCE, AND LIVE MEDIA

Erika Kirk, the widow of the late activist Charlie Kirk, and conservative commentator Candace Owens have garnered significant attention from the media and social media. Since this involves real people and serious accusations, it’s crucial to distinguish between confirmed information and unsubstantiated claims.

What We Know So Far

Candace Owens and Ben Shapiro:

• In a recent disagreement, Ben Shapiro said that Owens had gone too far with her comments regarding Erika Kirk following Charlie’s death.
• Owens has publicly stated that she did not accuse Erika of murder and described Shapiro’s claim as “made up out of thin air.

Erika Kirk’s Role at Turning Point USA:

• Multiple mainstream sources claim that Erika has assumed leadership of Turning Point USA and is integrating a message of forgiveness with more aggressive political rhetoric, becoming a significant public figure within the right post-Charlie Kirk era.

JD Vance Rumors:

• Erika Kirk and Senator JD Vance have shared a viral hug and made several public appearances together, sparking social media and YouTube discussions about a possible romantic relationship.
• Regarding the rumors, Erika stated that there are wild conspiracy theories surrounding her, and there are no verified claims of any wrongdoing or affair. The widely discussed topic is purely speculative and has been spread through social media and tabloid channels.

What We Cannot Treat as Fact

• Claims that Erika Kirk played any role in her husband’s death or claims she is in a romantic relationship with any of the political figures mentioned are unproven. Responsible sources continue to treat them as rumors or conspiracy theories.

For Great Community Authority Forums, we will not consider those claims to be true.

We need to:

• Acknowledge a media and online debate,
• Understand that key stakeholders refute the more extreme allegations, and
• Warn that unsubstantiated claims are damaging to reputations and should be extremely guarded.
• People making bold claims without strong evidence and/or documentation should be considered as opinions, rather than absolute truths.

SUMMARY FOR HOMEOWNERS, RENTERS, AND INVESTORS

Putting the above insights together:

• Markets: Stocks are performing poorly, but not to the degree of crashing, while the tech sector appears to be the most affected.
• Rates: Mortgage rates are still elevated, but not at the highest levels we have seen recently, and are likely to increase further if inflation and deficits become problematic again.
• Economy: The GDP growth rate might look strong on paper, but many households are likely to be on the losing end based on consumer sentiment, auto repos, and foreclosures.
• Politics: The shutdown is causing significant damage to confidence and is an unscheduled event.
• Sanctuary city battles are altering the relationship between Washington and major metropolitan areas, including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Boston.
• The Mamdani win in NYC is considered both positive and negative by some, and is closely monitored by those opposed to aggressive taxes, heavy local control of ICE, increased regulation, and local resistance.
• Social Climate: The highly publicized controversies, such as Owens vs. Erika Kirk, are evidence of a larger information warfare that intersects with tragedy, politics, and online speculation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AkhBiI6dOMs

• This discussion was modified 3 months, 1 week ago by  Sapna Sharma.

GCA Forums News for November 6, 2025.

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC COUNCIL BREAKING NEWS REPORT Thursday. November 6, 2025.

Market Report

MARKETS IN TURMOIL: US Stock Market Faces Major Selloff on Bleak Jobs Data

The US stock market opened Thursday’s session deep in the red with the Dow Jones Industrial Average losing around 0.8 percent and the S&P 500 losing 0.9 percent. The tech-heavy Nasdaq composite was the worst performer, sinking 1.6 percent. Looking back at the previous day, November 5, the equities market registered gains as the Dow Jones Industrial Average added 225.76 points to close at 47,311.00, the S&P 500 then rose to 6,796.29, and the Nasdaq composite climbed to 23,499.80.

A Private jobs report showed a surge of layoffs in October, particularly in the tech sector. Bitcoin has continued to decline, with a drop of around 6 percent, now standing at just below $100,000 for the first time since June. Strategists are worried about the impact of the current government shutdown on liquidity in the US. The government shutdown has entered its 37th day, the longest in US history.

Live Mortgage Mortgage Rates and Housing Market Update

As of Thursday, November 6, 2025, the current mortgage rates of a 30-year fixed mortgage are 6.12%, with the 15-year fixed at 5.63%. The mortgage rate set by Freddie Mac for a 30-year fixed mortgage dropped to 6.17% for the week ending October 30.

According to the data provided by Preferred Mortgage Rates, the top average HELOC has dropped to 7.64%, which is 11 basis points lower than a month ago, marking its lowest for 2025. Experts predict that 30-year fixed mortgage rates at the end of the month will be around 6.1% to 6.3%, assuming no significant economic curveballs emerge.

Even though inflation is high, the job market is tightening, and there is new uncertainty about the government shutdown, experts believe rates will remain about the same. On October 29, the Federal Reserve cut another quarter point, bringing the federal funds rate to a target range of 3.75% to 4.00%.

Critical Economic Data: Inflation, Unemployment, and GDP

• As of September 2025, inflation as reported by the Headline CPI is at 3.0 percent.
• Between January 2025 and September 2025, CPI growth was more subdued, at 2.5 percent on an annualized basis.
• Over the 12 months to August 2025, Headline PCE inflation was measured at 2.7 percent.
• In July and August, the monthly average of job openings is 7.2 million compared to 7.5 million in the average for the second quarter.
• The ratio of job openings to unemployed workers was held at 1.0 for the unemployed.
• Private sector layoffs and discharges, which accounted for 1.3 percent of employment in July and August, are running at the low rates characteristic of the Trump presidency before the pandemic.
• According to professionals, the current quarter’s Headline Consumer Price Index inflation is expected to be approximately three percent.
• The unemployment rate is expected to be around an annual average of 4.2 percent in 2025 and 4.5 percent in 2026.
• Real GDP is expected to grow by approximately 1.3 percent in the current quarter, with an expected annual average growth rate of 1.7 percent in 2025.

HISTORICAL POLITICAL EARTHQUAKE: ZOHRAN MAMDANI BECOMES THE FIRST DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST MAYOR OF NYC

• On November 4, 2025, Zohran Mamdani became the first African American, the first Jamaican American, the first millennial, and the first Person of Color to hold the office of mayor of New York City.
• Mamdani was able to avoid the stigmas. He became the second mayor of New York City to be a democratic socialist.
• This was due to his devotion to the country’s roots, as well as his democratic views.
• Mamdani secured 50.4 percent of the votes, effectively closing the political career of his rival, former Governor Andrew Cuomo.
• Mamdani turned 34 in 2025 and successfully magnetized the democratic socialist segment of the country, extending his appeal beyond the average socialist.
• His appeal, along with his devotion to the working class, enabled him to secure victory in the general election.
• Mamdani stated that if elected, he would make promises to improve the working conditions of his New York City constituents.
• He even quoted Eugene Debs, saying he could see the dawn of a better day for humanity.
• Mamdani supports the ‘fare-free’ city bus program and advocates for the rest of the following to be fully accepted.
• He also wants a minimum wage of $30 by 2030.
• Then he plans to make public child care available to every citizen, set up city-owned grocery stores, and subsidize public transportation.

DIRECT EFFECTS ON TRUMP GOVERNMENT AND US POLITICS

• The mayoral race attracted the attention of the President, who, the night before the elections, said he was supporting and endorsing Cuomo.
• He threatened to refuse federal funding for New York City under a Mayor Mamdani.
• Let’s make it very clear: President Donald Trump asked New York City residents to vote for Cuomo. He has been saying for a long time that Mamdani is a communist, which is totally wrong and false.
• Operatives and political giants on the left and MAGA side of the spectrum want to bring Mamdani’s story to the national spotlight ahead of the midterm elections and beyond.
• As he suspended his campaign, Nshoo Nshoo Neeso.
• It’s time for him to govern the largest city in the nation.
• Mamdani’s election is also ready to fuel the debate within the Democratic Party.
• As a Democratic socialist, his position and this interesting shift in the political spotlight will leave many speculating about the upcoming elections in the next year.
• Democratic socialism does not have a singular definition.
• However, its advocates argue that government control of the economy, at which the state stands to gain, should be deepened.
• Both Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have supported Mamdanis’ candidacy before the June primary and have rallied with him ever since.
• He made it clear that, after winning the Democratic primary in June, he is paying close attention to building a coalition and is in contact with businesspeople and other peripheral members of his core coalition.
• He stated that he would ask Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch to remain in his administration, which is assumed to be an olive branch in a carefully constructed coalition.

TURNING POINT USA IN CRISIS: CANDACE OWENS EXPOSES LEAKED TEXTS AMID LEADERSHIP TURMOIL

• The conservative commentator Candace Owens has leaked private texts, which also appear to show the deceased Chalie Kirk expressing his frustrations with wealthy donors who support Israel, which Turning Point USA spokesperson Andrew Kolvet has confirmed.
• Within the messages, Kirk worries that he has just lost another prominent Jewish donor who contributes $ 2 million a year because Turning Point USA does not want to cancel a booking with Tucker Carlson for an event.
• On September 10, 2025, Kirk’s assassination left his co-founder, Charlie Kirk, dead.
• Charlie, at the time, was attending Utah Valley University as the organization was organizing what they said was a series of “important”

Events

• Erika Kirk, a widowed individual, was appointed CEO on September 18, 2025.
• She was the wife of Charlie Kirk.
• The founder’s Chief of Staff, Mikey McCoy, told the audience at Kirk’s memorial, “The tyrant dies and his rule is over. The martyr dies and his rule has just begun.”
• McCoy told Fox News that Charlie Kirk is a martyr.
• His assassination sparked a legacy of faith, forgiveness, and a renewed commitment to dialogue.
• “The memorial had over 277,000 in-person attendees and 100 million streamed online.”
• Owens’ controversial comments have again brought to the forefront her concerning relations with the Kirk Erika, the wife who has stepped up after the husband died and is actively involved with the organization.
• Current Affairs comments with Kirk’s ‘allies’ showed their frustration that it was Candace who led the “conspiracy” charge around Kirk’s death.

JD VANCE VICE PRESIDENT WITH ERIKA KIRK: A TANGLED STORY

• The moment was meant as a tribute during a Turning Point USA event at the University of Mississippi.
• However, it went viral when, during the presentation, Kirk introduced Vance, her voice trembling.
• When the cameras caught him during a moment of prolonged gaze, his hand was low on her back during the embrace.
• Later, Vice President JD Vance did not escape scrutiny over the event at the University of Mississippi, where Erika Kirk, the widow of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, who almost fell over during a hug, was alongside him.
• Much of it is ludicrous, but the root of the issue is that Vice President JD Vance has been seen with Erika Kirk and has been known to travel with her.
• At the congress, with arm touching and prolonged gaze, President Vance was pinned to the right lower border of Erika Kirk with no justification.
• The statement is certainly false, as none of it is, and reason enough is not.
• He had performed at another event at the University of Mississippi, paying tribute to his friend and conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
• During the interactions, he answered the participants’ questions.
• He maintained a similar demeanor to that of a US congress member and the rest of the performers during the event.

GUSTAN CHO ASSOCIATES: NATIONAL MORTGAGE COMPANY UPDATE

Gustan Cho Associates is a national five-star mortgage company headquartered in Illinois. Gustan Cho Associates has lived through exponential growth since 2012. The reason is simple: the company has no lender overlays on government and conventional loans. Currently, Gustan Cho Associates has over 80% of its borrower base composed of individuals who could not qualify at other lenders due to lender overlays on government and conventional loans.

Gustan Cho Associates has a national reputation for not only competing on government and conventional loans with no lender overlays, but also for covering hundreds of non-QM and alternative mortgage loan programs. Gustan Cho Associates has over 280 wholesale mortgage lending partners and is licensed in 48 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands (MA and NY Pending).

Gustan Cho Associates is assisting borrowers who are applying for the new 2025 conforming loan limits, which have increased to $806,500 for single-family homes and to $1,209,750 in high-cost areas for 2025. The high-cost area limits are also available to borrowers. Gustan Cho Associates makes their services available 7 days a week, including late evenings, and never closes on weekends or holidays. Every single one of Gustan’s licensed professionals and Associates is on call and reachable on their private cell phones.

Thursday, November 6, 2025, is a day that will be remembered as a monumental event in American history, encompassing both the political and economic aspects. The Labor Market is weak, and the Government is on the brink of closing, which is causing a high amount of uncertainty in the stock market. Interest rates are still high, yet are slowly beginning to decrease. The shocking and history-making election of the Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani as mayor of New York City complicates the city’s political landscape. At the same time, the assassination of Charlie Kirk leaves Turning Point USA on a downward spiral. Both of these events signal that significant changes are to come in America’s economy and politics, which will be influenced by the second term of Trump’s presidency.

For new details, reach out to GCA Forums News. Gustan Cho Associates continues to assist clients nationwide with exceptional mortgage options, even in these challenging economic times.

NOTE TO THE EDITORS

• The original question mentions Ms. Erika Trump declaring something about Mikey McCoy.
• However, the related information could not be confirmed with the wide range of available news.
• Everything included in this report has been confirmed through reliable news sources as of November 6, 2025.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yM5hqwmJO2g&list=RDNSyM5hqwmJO2g&start_radio=1

GCA Forums LIVE National Breaking News – November 7, 2025

LIVE STOCK MARKET & DOW JONES UPDATE NOVEMBER 7, 2025

CONCERNING DOW JONES, S&P 500, AND NASDAQ

Unfortunately, the first week of November has been rough, and Wall Street has the impression that it has ended on a pretty bleak note.

As of now:

• Dow Jones Industrial Average: The estimated value of this index is 46,600.
• From yesterday to today, this index has dropped by 0.6 – 0.7.
• Yesterday, the index closed at 47,359, but today it appears to be at approximately 46,877.40.
• S&P 500: This index is estimated to be in the range of 6,640-6,700.
• This index has also dropped by 1 – 1.2 when compared to yesterday, when it closed at 6,796.68.
• The S&P 500 is closing in on 6,696.18 today.
• Nasdaq Composite: This index has experienced the largest decline compared to other indexes, dropping by 1.9-2.0%.
• The estimated value of this index is $22,600 to $22,900.
• The available and reliable historical data indicate that this index is currently estimated at 22,892.92.
• Investors, having reassessed the aggressive AI valuations and earnings guidance, have incurred the steepest losses, dedicating a fresh and uncontrolled wave of sell-offs to tech stocks.

Major Indexes

• Out of the total, four weeks have been lost, with a single week being lost. This is the first week to be lost.
• When compared to the week before, which saw AI-driven wins, Wall Street is beginning to seriously question the overall driving factors of this industry.

What is Driving This Day’s Sell-Off?

What is Driving Instantaneously Today’s Sell-Off?

Valuation Anxiety

• What has substantially changed in Wall Street’s perception?
• The gains that have come with the price in the trailing months of the set AI by earnings are finally beginning to take their toll and are causing tech mega capitals.

Maketwatch

• The Debt and Shutdown Worry: The news of the government’s federal shutdown and the U.S. national debt surpassing $38 trillion is raising apprehensions about capital.
• Trump’s New Tariff: Trump’s tariffs on a large quantity of imported products continue to increase the cost of living and operating expenses for consumers and businesses, contributing to inflation and market volatility.
• For the ordinary American, the day’s negative growth is the equivalent of a constantly fluctuating 401(k) and an increasing number of apprehensions in the lead-up to 2026.

LIVE INTEREST RATES, BONDS, & FED WATCH

10 Year Treasury & Its Rate Predictions

• The 10 Year U.S. Treasury Yield is currently 4.10+ (approximately 4.10 to 4.11), higher than the 4.01 to 4.02 range observed in late October.
• The effective federal funds rate sits in the mid-4 % realm as the Fed considers additional cuts after the September meeting.
• A hike may occur in 2026 if the rate of growth decreases and unemployment begins to increase; however, the Fed is on high alert due to persistent inflation.

LIVE MORTGAGE RATES & THE HOUSING MARKET

Mortgage Rates For Today – November 7, 2025

• Mortgage rates have moved away from the peaks of 2023-2024.

However, they are still not “affordable” when put against history:

• 30 Year Fixed Mortgage (national average): 6.26% as of today, from a Bankrate Quote as reported in The Wall Street Journal.
• Survey estimates indicated that 30 Year Fixed Rates are placed between 6% and 6.3%, with the leading trackers, Freddie Mac and Zillow, hovering around that vicinity.

The Conditions Are As Follows:

• Total payments have decreased in value since the 7% to 8% high,
• Debt-to-income ratios remain extremely high, particularly given the high cost of housing and consumer debt.

Purchase And Refinance Activity

• Based on the findings of the MBA Mortgage Applications Index, there appears to be stagnation in activity, with purchase activity at a standstill and only a slight upturn in refinance activity, as some homeowners attempt to consolidate high-interest personal debt at lower rates.

Housing Market – Sales and Prices

• Existing home sales continue to decline at recessionary levels, accounting for 3.8-3.9 million homes at a seasonally adjusted annual rate that has hovered around a 15-year low.
• New home sales continue to outperform sales of existing homes, as builders offer incentives and buy-down rates. However, the pace has slackened since the start of the year.
• The national home-price indices continue to show increases. However, appreciation has slowed, with some prices in high-cost markets stalling or decreasing slightly, adjusted for inflation.

2026 Housing and Mortgage Forecast Snapshot

• Market experts are predicting real GDP growth in the range of 1.7 to 1.8% in 2025, followed by a slowdown to 1.4% in 2026.
• Defying doomsday predictions, this suggests a soft landing.

That Backdrop Points To:

• Home prices are likely to stabilise with mortgage rates gradually drifting lower,
• A better point of purchase for buyers, despite tighter underwriting and only minor gains.
• This is where Gustan Cho Associates’ no-overlay model and manual underwriting skills truly shine.
• This is the case most especially for issues of credit, high DTI, or nonstandard income.

LIVE U.S. ECONOMY: GDP, CPI, INFLATION, AND JOBS

GDP and Growth

• The Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow model estimates Q3 2025 real GDP growth around 4.0% (annualized) as of November 6.
• The consensus forecaster still expects full-year 2025 growth to be around 1.7–1.8%, with 2026 growth forecasted to be 1.4%.

In other words, the economy is not in recession. However, growth is lopsided and vulnerable to fluctuations in tariffs, debt, and shutdowns.

CPI, PCE, and Their Effect on Inflation

• CPI Inflation For Headline: Year on Year: 3.0% in September 2025, up from 2.9% in August, and the highest since January.
• Core CPI Year on Year: Approximately 3.0%, still high compared to the 2% expected by the Fed.
• Core PCE: The Fed still observes it as approximately **2.7-2.9% y-o-y in the late summer of 2025.

Reasons:

• The price of Gasoline **rose 4.1% in September.
• New automobiles experienced one of the largest price gains in the last few months of the year.
• Inflation on housing and accommodation rents is slowing down for the first time, to the relief of many property owners and renters.

The Unemployment and Layoffs in Addition to the New “Jobpocalypse” Term

• Due to the federal kerfuffle, official records for September and October remain unavailable, and this is the first time information has been withheld from the public, leaving both Wall Street and Main Street uncertain about their direction.

Concerning issues

• The last complete report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics was released in August, indicating the addition of 22,000 jobs, while the unemployment rate stood at 4.3%.
• The economy is still slowing down, but has not completely collapsed.
• Fed-covered indicators and private trackers now reflect an unemployment trap of approximately 4.3-4.4%.
• There has been a staggering increase in corporate layoffs.
• October alone saw 153,000 job cuts, while the total for the year up to October is approximately 1.1 million.
• This has been the worst October in 22 years.
• This new phenomenon is being termed the “Jobpocalypse” as blue-collar, entry-level, and white-collar jobs alike witness the rise of AI and the tightening grip hiring freezes have on new graduates.
• The consequence of this is dense.
• The labor market is stagnating but not crashing, and the reason for this is that workers are losing ground.
• Compared to 2022-2023, the sense of security has only grown more jittery.

LIVE AUTO MARKET STRESS: REPOSSESSIONS, CARMAX, AND SKY HIGH PRICES Auto Loan Delinquency and Repossession

• Once again, multiple pieces of evidence suggest that stress on auto loans has reached or surpassed the levels of the Great Recession.
• The overall rate of auto loans 60+ days delinquent reached 1.38% in Q1 2023, which is higher than the peak in 2009.
• Subprime auto delinquency rates increased by 6.6% in the first quarter of 2023.
• One study suggests that 5.1% of auto loan holders are delinquent on at least one auto loan, and in some states, the figure approaches 10%.
• Analysts have reported that auto loan delinquency rates have increased by more than 50% since 2010.
• The numbers above accurately reflect the current state of the economy in the United States.
• It is the best evidence to suggest the auto loan economy is on the rise.

CarMax – A Canary in the Coal Mine

As the largest used-car retailer in the United States, CarMax has proved to be a first-level gauge of tension within the automotive and credit industry:

• Wall Street expectations were far exceeded in a CarMax forecast for a comparable-store sales drop of 8 to 12 percent for the current quarter, and the resignation of CEO Bill Nash was also announced.
• Following a weak earnings call, the stock has lost approximately 50-60 percent of its value for the year, as well as experienced single-day drops of 20-30 percent.
• Earlier filings indicate that CarMax remains profitable.
• About 500 million in net earnings for the fiscal year of 2025, plus 300 million in the net earnings for the first half of the fiscal year 2026, with margins.
• However, buyers are reluctant to pay the high costs, leading to pricing defaults.
• CarMax, still profitable, netting millions in earnings, and with the headline ‘CarMax losing billions,’ seems to be an exaggerated conclusion regarding the billions lost by CarMax.
• In fact, the market value has lost billions with CarMax as the cover headline.

Automotive Lenders, Suppliers, and Bankruptcies

• Stress has begun to focus on the installment buyers and the dealership’s finances and backers.
• Another auto-parts manufacturer, First Brands Holdings, has also filed for Chapter 11, claiming $50 billion in liabilities, which highlights the weakness of the supply chain and its financial situation.
• A wave of corporate bankruptcies in the auto-parts and equipment finance sector this year suggests that more dealers may be driven to restructuring if credit conditions tighten further.

Economically, New and Used Car Prices Still Burn

• The average price of a new car in September was over $50,080, which is the first time new car prices surpassed $50,000.
• This value is also up 3.6% from the previous year.
• Other analysts estimate that the average price for new cars in 2025 will be around 48,800 dollars.
• This is still above the prices before the pandemic, adjusted for inflation.
• Currently, the average price of a used vehicle is $25,800, representing a 2 percent increase from last year.
• AA estimates that the average annual cost to own and operate a new vehicle is approximately $11,577, which translates to around $965 per month.
• This figure highlights that, despite a decrease in fuel and financing costs, the high price of new cars remains a significant concern.
• For couples trying to balance mortgage payments with car loans, the new estimates indicate that these debts are the primary cause of repossessions, delinquencies, and bankruptcies.

LIVE ELECTION RESULTS: ZOHRAN MAMDANI’S HISTORIC WIN AND THE TRUMP ERA

Zohran Mamdani Elected Mayor of New York City

• In the historic 2025 election, with 50.4% of the votes, or almost 1.04 million votes, an assemblyman from Queens and a democratic socialist, Zohran Mamdani, was elected the 111th Mayor of New York City.
• In this election, he is projected to be the youngest mayor in more than 100 years, at 34, and the first South Asian and first Muslim to hold this office in New York City.
• Andrew Cuomo, the former governor, would be running as a Democrat with 41.6% of the vote, and Republican Curtis Sliwa would be nearly finished with 7.1%.
• With the election exceeding 2 million voters, the turnout is marked as one of the highest in years.
• He is set to be sworn in on January 1, 2026.

Mamdani’s Platform Has The Potential To Effect In:

• Rent freezes.
• A $30 city minimum wage.
• Free bus transit.
• Universal childcare.
• Higher taxes on the wealthy.
• Large-scale affordable-housing expansion.

What It Means for the Trump Administration and U.S. Politics

• Mikie Sherrill earned the New Jersey governorship alongside other Democrats who secured a clean sweep in high-profile 2025 races.
• Virginia’s gubernatorial race was won by Abigail Spanberger, and other Progressives and Democrats previously mentioned also earned victories in other crucial ballot measures and mayoral races.

Al Jazeera

• Many people are saying that this result is an early voting poll indicating what Trump plans to do if he is elected for a second time.

Most notably:

• His economic policies that are focused on
• His stance towards the blue state governors and mayors.
• His management of the prolonged government shutdown and rising inflation.
• The wannabe Trump, in a tirade, called Mamdani a communist and threatened.
• Only to retract after the threat.
• To withdraw federal funds from the city of New York and target the new mayor, thereby setting the tone for a showdown with the White House, which is a proxy for a showdown with the city.

For The Market, Mamdani’s Victory is Interpreted in The Following Ways:

• A barometer of the voters’ rising frustration with the price of housing and living.
• A prediction for new, more stringent, local taxes for high-income earners and property owners.
• A pointer that Republicans are on shaky ground for the 2026 midterms should inflation and debt continue to rise.

TURNING POINT USA TURMOIL: ERIKA KIRK, CANDACE OWENS, AND MIKEY MCCOY.Erika Kirk Takes the Helm at TPUSA

• The murder of the founder of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk, on September 10 at Utah Valley University.
• Erika Frantzve Kirk, widow of the late Casey Kirk, has been unanimously voted into the position of CEO and Chair of the Board of Turning Point USA.

Key Points:

Quote: “I will make sure that this organization has more relevance.”

• She wants to make Turning Point the most significant event this nation has ever seen.
• This is her vision for TPUSA to be considered for the MAGA offer.
• She was the first recipient of the Charlie Kirk Legacy Award and has vowed to continue to speak the truth, which includes publicly forgiving her husband’s alleged killer, which has caused a firestorm of controversy.

Rumors and Conspiracy Theories Around Candace Owens

Candace Owens has taken the lead on the alleged death of Charlie Kirk by campaigning on the death of Charlie Kirk:

• Publishing so-called text message conversations of Kirk complaining about being “wiped out” and about an ally donor to Israel.
• Sharing videos that numerous commentators and media outlets classify as fake news and unproven theories about the perpetrators.

An Important Reminder For Our Audience:

• Most news outlets go out of their way to call many of Owens’ claims false, conspiracy theories, and unproven.
• The allegations and claims about the death have not been proven to be true; there is no evidence in the public domain that has been corroborated.
• In an effort to prevent the spread of rumors, GCA Forums News has made a conscious effort not to relay unproven allegations about specific members of the public. We will focus on the political and legal consequences. However, we tell the audience to be smart about viral videos and unknown authorship.

Mikey McCoy’s Increasing Influence and JD Vance

• Over the years, while still working for Charlie Kirk and TPUSA as his Chief of Staff, Michael McCoy has started traveling to significant events across the conservative nation.
• There, he has begun talking to attendees and is therefore becoming the voice of the organization.
• Michael has also started using social media, especially Instagram, to create even more awareness and visibility for the organization.
• McCoy’s visibility has increased, and he mostly speaks about and promotes Ms. Kirk to different conservative organizations and social media platforms.
• There has also been a sudden outbreak of media coverage, videos, and photos about Michael McCoy passionately telling the story of Charlie and reminiscing on Erika’s amazing leadership and how Erika is now in control of the Charlie Kirk leadership program, starting from his coronation to the leadership throne and the others.
• Add any links to videos and footage related to this topic, and attempt to verify them as accurate, as it has been challenging to validate and pinpoint the source of the information.
• Most of the work these days is about Kirk’s events and how Kirk gets the most media coverage from events with Erika and Vice President JD Vance.
• People have been discussing how they work together politically and their Instagram photos, but it’s mostly rumors and casual media commentary.
• The work has been featured in the Hindustan Times and is also available on various platforms; however, most of their work is for show.
• People have started a trend of lip-reading suspicious conversations, and most of this is for show.
• This must be stated, as it has been put on the table.
• It has lost some of the original storytelling magic due to how speculative personal accounts have been shoehorning storytelling.
• These days, the work revolves around analyzing these speeches and their confirmed roles.

IMPACTS FOR BORROWERS, HOMEOWNERS, AND INVESTORSGauging today’s LIVE data and politics, I note the following: Rates and Payments

• Mortgage rates of about 6.25 percent and a 10-year Treasury yield near 4.1 percent indicate that, for the economy, monthly payments remain elevated. However, the panic levels of 2023 are not being reached.

Opportunities

• The Bureau of Economic Analysis notes that the sluggish existing sales and level prices create opportunities for prepared buyers.
• This is especially true for buyers who can utilize manual underwriting, non-QM, DSCR, and bank statement loans to qualify when major lending institutions decline their applications.

Risk

• The risk of increased layoffs, combined with rising auto delinquencies and growing household debt, shifts the risk of credit score and late payments, mortgage qualifying, and pricing, especially in this economy.

Political Polarization

• The Guardian notes that the Democratic Socialist Mayor in New York and the Democratic governor win, and the other embattled Trump administration sets the stage for quick changes, leading to policy whiplash over the next 12 to 24 months.
• This includes changes in taxes, housing, subsidies, regulations, and even immigration.

The Synthesis For This is Rather Simple:

• Monitoring your credit, income paperwork, debt-to-income ratios, and your selected lender are things you can control.

GUSTAN CHO ASSOCIATES LIVE AND GCA FORUMS UPDATE

• Even with the constant turbulence in Washington and Wall Street, as well as the motor and housing sectors, Gustan Cho Associates and its wholly owned affiliates have continued with their no-overlays, common-sense underwriting mission.
• GCA Forums (GCAForums.com) compiles and disseminates a wide array of LIVE News, daily mortgage rate snapshots, housing updates, and State and National economic updates in layperson’s terms.

We Especially Remember The Addition of The Most Recent

• Home loans with no credit.
• DSCR and non-QM Investor loans.
• Home loan cash-out refinancing and consolidation of high-interest debt.
• Refinancing of high-interest debts.
• FHA, VA, USDA manual underwriting loans for other lenders touched away’ claims.

The team at GCA continues to tell clients and potential clients that they do things that other lenders do not have the capacity to do:

• We Do Mortgages Other Lenders Can’t.
• Suppose you have concerns about repossessions, inflation, or a credit incident, and you wonder how these realities interact with today’s home purchase and refinance market. In that case, Gustan Cho Associates can professionally analyze your credit, income, assets, and DTI ratio to construct a plan tailored specifically for you.

Are You in Need of Immediate Assistance?

• Use the person in today’s snapshot as a wake-up call and do not panic.
• As a first-time homebuyer, you may find that **the market has created the optimal negotiating environment.
• As a homeowner with 20–30% credit card debt, you may find that a cash-out refinance and structured debt consolidation plan can provide significantly improved cash flow, even at 6% mortgage rates.
• As an investor, you know that DSCR and other alternative income streams are powerful even with noise in the rate market.

GCA Forums News understands the importance of providing you with relevant and current information, enabling you to make informed decisions rather than emotional ones.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDDDyhNnrlY

GCA Forums News for Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Markets Snapshot

• Dow Jones Industrial Average 46,140 (-0.3% from opening).
• S&P 500 6,645 (-0.4%)
• Nasdaq 22,485 (-0.4%).

Traders reacted to Fed Chair Powell’s remark on “highly valued” equities, especially in tech.

• U.S. 10-year Treasury yield 4.16% (higher for message, meaning fresh selling).

Commodities:

• Gold: $3,752.90 per troy ounce
• Silver: $44.20 per troy ounce
• Mortgage rates (avg 30-yr fixed): 6.26% (Freddie Mac’s weekly reading
• MND daily shows 6.27%.

Breaking Housing & Mortgage News

• New-home sales surged 20.5% in August to a seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR) of 800,000, the strongest pace in three years, driven by builder incentives and a slight dip in borrowing costs.
• MBA mortgage applications rose 0.6% in the week ending Sept. 19.
• Within that, refinancing requests climbed 1% and sit 42% above the same week last year.
• Housing Inventory: As of July, NAR reports a 4.6-month supply, showing a gradual return to balance in the market.
• Housing Outlook: Fannie Mae now forecasts 30-year mortgage rates at 6.4% by late 2025 and 5.9% by late 2026, along with expected sales growth next year.

Economy at a Glance

• Inflation: The Consumer Price Index rose 0.2% month-over-month in August and is up 2.5% year-over-year.
• The core index is up 2.9%.
• Economic Growth: The latest reading on real GDP for Q2 (second estimate) shows a 1.6% annualized increase.
• Labor Market: Initial jobless claims totaled 231,000 in the week of Sept. 13, down from a recent spike.
• Benchmarking by the BLS indicated that about 911,000 fewer jobs existed from March 2024 through March 2025 compared to prior estimates.

Fed Watch: Powell, Policy, and Personnel

• Monetary Policy Update: The Fed Open Market Committee (FOMC) is not announcing any rate decision at its meeting, with the next date set for Nov. 5-6.
• It recently cut the policy rate by 25 basis points to a target range of 4.00-4.25%.
• Speculation on Powell’s Future: The White House is reportedly considering possible successors to the chair as Treasury Secretary Yellen and other senior officials discuss the matter.
• Scott Bessent reports that interviews will kick off early next week.
• The market is still mulling over the possible fallout of Powell’s possible departure; for example, the President hasn’t fired him yet.
• Fed HQ Work: Powell faced the administration over the budget costs.
• He answered, no signs of wrongdoing were pointed to.
• Gov. Cook Matter: The White House tried to remove Cook from the Board, saying she miscalculated her mortgage occupancy.
• The judge said the White House lacked the right grounds, and now the high court is looking at it.
• An AP-sourced set of files backs up her version of a home that is a second/vacation.

Chicago & Illinois, Snapshot Updates

• Chicago: City officials want to raise a higher corporate head tax and use other fees and tax shifts to fill a budget hole.
• Execs say the move could scare off jobs and growth.
• Illinois: Gov. J.B. Pritzker is promoting a new energy package called FEJA 2.0.
• Utilities are warning about possible rising costs as talks continue.

Investigations and Claims: Verified vs. Unverified

New York Attorney General Letitia James

• We see no reliable reports about “mortgage fraud charges.”
• Instead, she is defending herself against lawsuits that try to dismiss her office’s investigations.
• One “insurance violation” charge against Trump’s organization was dismissed in a separate case last spring.
• Essentially, no charges against James.

Senator Adam Schiff (California)

• Critics have claimed Schiff is tied up in a real estate and mortgage ethics issue and are demanding documents.
• No criminal charges have been filed.
• Treat this as a claim in a political dispute, not a proven fact.

Gov. Gavin Newsom (CA)

• Question Raised: How can a public servant afford two multi-million-dollar homes?
• Public records and earlier articles show notable income beyond salary (like business investments; a 2020 LA Times report estimated $1.7M in income and large asset values).
• This context—not salary alone—clarifies his buying power.
• No proven fraud report exists today.

“DNI Tulsi Gabbard” & “Russian Collusion Masterminds”

• Tulsi Gabbard now serves as DNI and has canceled clearances over alleged past behavior for former officials.
• No formal treason charges have been filed today against any of the names circulating online.

Ghislaine Maxwell / “Epstein list”

• Maxwell’s attorneys have offered to testify in limited circumstances, yet the DOJ/FBI claim no official “client list” exists and will not publish more records.
• The House Oversight Committee has posted tens of thousands of documents.
• Discussions continue, but a definitive “list” has not been produced per the DOJ.

Pam Bondi / FBI Director Kash Patel / Deputy FBI Director Dan Bongino

• The administration’s July memo concluded no “client list” exists.
• A conclusion now serves as official DOJ policy, despite political pushback.
• Bottom Line: When formal charges or official actions exist, they’re cited above.
• When items are labeled as claims—meaning they haven’t been charged or reviewed—we tag them as unverified.
• This keeps us from spreading possible misinformation.

Business Update: Bankruptcy & Job Cuts

• Omnicare, a unit of CVS, just went into Chapter 11 after facing a hefty $949 million jury award.
• The firm expects to keep operating while reorganizing.
• Job Cuts: The tech sector is still trimming payrolls as 2025 rolls on.
• Recent counts show multiple layoffs affecting tens of thousands.
• Fresh data expected later this week.

Musk, Trump, and the Possible New Party

• Elon Musk is in the headlines again, hinting at a new “American Party” since July.
• He talks about collaborating with the White House.
• However, there’s noticeable tension—the “One Big Beautiful Bill” symbolizes the faction line.
• Musk can’t run due to residency laws, so there’s no official candidacy, but party structures are taking shape.

Coming Events to Monitor

• Federal Reserve signals: Powell and other board members are expected to speak this week, guiding markets before the PCE inflation release.
• The note is that rate changes will still be gentle. There is no jump to a 3-point drop right now.
• Housing Data: The existing-home sales figure arrives Thursday.
• Forecasts are leaning soft, even with the surge in new construction.
• Watch inventory for deeper insight.
• If you’d like a lender-oriented, one-page daily brief that puts these indicators into your GCA dashboards, say the word.

See What’s Moving in Investors and Homebuyers’ Minds

• Lenders have cut mortgage rates again—another small average dip means optimism in the air.
• Homebuyers damaged repair files this time, so apps for loans bumped higher.
• You can read about the uptick and the driving factors in the original article.
• For more existing-market stories, continue to the Mortgage Applications.
• Existing-home sales still struggle to get traction.
• The latest snapshot shows low supply, high equity, and millions of stubborn sheltering inside no-appraisal mortgage loans.
• The balance between buyers on the sidelines and wallets still holding rate-lock hazards continues.

An echo from the housing front surfaced in short GSE comments. Fannie Mae’s housing forecast stated loans are near six percent for the forward trajectory at the end of the second full quarter of next year. At about the same time, news from a verified intel source claims that the White House is calling on agencies to rein in allocations. An internal communiqué cited vaguer guidelines, but quarters are buying out indicators in rides and ministries.

• The Justice Department found no formal “client list” in the Epstein case, so no further action will be taken.
• The press release, however, still stirred public interest, given Epstein’s reputation for hanging with powerful figures.
• Missing documents or “client lists” in black-and-white often attract rumors in the worst way.
• The matter, for now, is labeled settled.
• Omnicare, a CVS subsidiary, uses the courts to gain a breathing space from $949 million in debt.
• The pharmacy chain, focused on nursing-home patients, is the latest domino to fall under the wider debt challenges facing health care and long-term care industries.
• CVS pointed to pandemic-related staffing shortages and the overheated labor market as key culprits in the filing.
• The Tech Crunch article lists layoffs from the 2025 season, showing an ongoing “right-sizing” culture.
• By June, enterprises had swapped 12 percent of the workforce, about 150,000 fewer jobs since January.
• The layoffs are selective but are now occurring in HR, accounting, and, of course, R&D.
• Elon Musk confirmed the launch of a new political movement tentatively called the “America Party.”
• According to the press release, the goal is to attract center-leaning constituents by running in 2024 but separating from the Trump wing, which it sees as too volatile.
• Fannie Mae expects sluggish housing investments in 2025, predicting GDP growth of just 1 percent or so during the year, absent bigger fiscal measures.
• The mortgage body advised lenders to lower expectations on home prices, as potential buyers are still caught with 2, 3, or 5 percent-old loans and unwilling to move after the Fed began lowering the key rate.
• The latest existing home sales figures land this Thursday, and experts urge restraint on any celebration.
• Mortgage rates are at a record 8 percent, and new construction is also creeping upwards, reducing the sales of pre-owned houses.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MN3ZlfDgjQ

GCA Forums News for Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Markets Overview

U.S. markets showed uneven moves on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, as traders prepared for Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s speech on interest rates. The Dow Jones rose 0.4 percent, closing at 46,364.11, bolstered by gains in banking and manufacturing stocks. The S&P 500 barely budged but still notched its fourth daily record, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq edged down 0.1 percent under the weight of major tech shares. A flash September composite purchasing managers’ index slipped to 53.6, down from 54.6 in August, hinting a slight growth slowdown. The yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury dipped to 4.15 percent, falling one basis point, as traders adopted a watchful tone ahead of a Fed policy verdict. Precious metals extended their recent rallies. Gold futures started at $3,781.20 per ounce, a 1.1 percent rise from the previous close of $3,740.70, buoyed by reports of fresh Chinese plans to broaden its global gold-custody role. Silver rose to $44.41 per ounce, gaining 2.09 percent on the day and more than 38 percent in 2025 to date.

Price increases picked up pace this August. The Consumer Price Index climbed 2.9 percent from a year earlier, up from July’s 2.7 percent, marking the fastest yearly gain since January. The economy kept moving in the second quarter, with gross domestic product growing at a 3.3 percent annualized pace, bouncing back from an earlier contraction. Even so, growth has slowed to a 2.5 percent average for the January-to-June period. Final numbers for jobs in early 2025 also tell a sobering story. Labor Dept. revisions sliced 911,000 positions from prior counts through March, leaving average monthly increases at a modest 44,000 so far this year.

Housing and Mortgage Developments

Current Market Conditions

The housing market keeps facing big bumps. Single-family housing started dropping to the lowest point in two and a half years in August, and many homes are still sitting unsold. Last year, unsold inventory jumped 26% to almost 300,000 extra listings. Buyers are still in short supply: new listings have grown slowly since April, and median list prices have barely moved for the fourth week. Experts predict that the number of homes for sale might rise by 32.6% by the close of 2025, making prices drop to $15,000 in some areas, yet 57% of households still find homes unaffordable. Meanwhile, the average 30-year fixed mortgage hit 6.36%, up by four basis points, while the 15-year fixed dropped by seven points to 5.72%. Forecasts show that the 30-year rate may average 6.7% in the third quarter of 2025, finish that year at 6.6%, and drop to 6.4% by the end of 2026.

Mortgage lenders and real estate firms are facing tough times. Independent mortgage banks recorded a loss of $28 per loan before taxes in the first quarter. High mortgage rates and falling loan origination volumes are to blame. The National Association of Realtors predicts more rate swings and steady gains in home prices. Though more homes are coming onto the market, sales are still slowing.

Federal Reserve Shake-Up, Senate Nominees, and Housing Rates

In rather sudden news on home loans and home prices, President Trump is leaning toward firing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. He toured the Fed’s $2.5 billion headquarters fix-up from the $1.9 billion he approved in 2023. He watched costs soar thanks to high labor prices, rising material prices, and the headaches of safe asbestos removal. Trump called Powell a fraud on his Truth Social feed, but hasn’t filed any papers in court. The drama kicks after a Supreme Court ruling threw out a rule unchanged in 90 years that limited a president’s right to dismiss independent board heads, which now likely includes the Fed.

Now, the chatter among Wall Street is that a new chair could chop three percentage points off all key interest rates. If that happens, loans this fall would move under 5 percent for the first time in two years, and home buyers and builders would cheer. Just the breath of talk triggered new forecasts of a small spike in home prices. Economists, though, fret that lending controlled by the news cycle is a lending cycle that misfires often.

All eyes now shift to the big Federal Open Market Committee show set for tomorrow, September 24. The central bank will authorize another cut to the key lending target. That would leave the Fed’s official target at 4.00 percent to 4.25 percent after a 25-basis-point drop earlier this month, the first cut since a small shift in December 2024. Senate committees are now vetting new nominees to fill two board vacancies that could swing future Fed doses.

Markets see a 94% chance that the Fed will cut rates by another quarter-point soon. Analysts expect the updated dot plot to show a target fed funds range of 3.5% to 3.75% by the end of 2019. This expectation comes as investors worry about weak signals from the labor market and rising inflation tied to recent and potential new tariffs. Uncertainty lingers over the relationship between President Trump and Fed Chair Powell. Powell has warned that the proposed tariffs could worsen inflationary pressures.

Political Scandals and Investigations

Mortgage Fraud Allegations

The list of politicians facing mortgage fraud accusations is getting longer. New York Attorney General Letitia James is reportedly under federal investigation for what sources describe as faulty paperwork during her 2023 purchase of a house in Virginia. These documents supposedly declare the property to be her main residence when experts think otherwise. Donald Trump has urged U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to move forward and seek charges, labeling James’s denial a flimsy defense and the entire inquiry politically motivated. One of the prosecutors believed to be leading the case recently left the team, hinting at serious pressure behind the scenes. Across the country, California Senator Adam Schiff is also in the spotlight, being examined for bank, mail, and wire fraud tied to two mortgages showing a 3 percent interest rate and inconsistent claims on which home he lists as the primary residence. Schiff remains firm, claiming the probes are a product of Trump’s vendetta against opponents. His statement has gone viral on platforms like X. Meanwhile, Federal Reserve Board Governor Lisa Cook is fighting to keep her job as her case prepares to reach the Supreme Court; she is accused of turning an Atlanta residence into a vacation home for tax-dodging reasons dating to 2021.

A lower court has temporarily blocked her deportation, but appeals appear intent on upholding Trump’s decision. Meanwhile, she will stay in her post while the real question over the underlying charges waits for resolution.

State-Level Controversies

California’s Governor Gavin Newsom faces renewed scrutiny over two lavish homes rumored to cost tens of millions yet bought on the same $200,000 confession he files each year, all while a federal task force probes coronavirus relief fraud. No indictment has surfaced, but bipartisan voices call for a full, public look at his tax returns. In Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson has countered Trump’s threat to send the Guard after a street crime by signing a directive protecting the right to assembly. He argues that the threat of martial law won’t fill a $146 million hole in the city’s Ledger, nor revive his popularity, now at a three-year low. Illinois’ Governor Pritzker has ordered an across-the-board 4% budget trim for fiscal 2026, citing a historical global supply shortage. Aside from his nickname for a physique that matches his five-foot-five frame–five-foot-five and five-hundred pounds–he has reduced the health secretary’s office and pledged to extend vaccine drives for hard-hit kitchens. His sharpest barb became reserving the “militarism” label for Trump’s Chicago troop talk.

Russian Collusion Revelations

New documents have been released that shake the Russian collusion story. Tulsi Gabbard, the current Director of National Intelligence, has made public papers that allege Barack Obama ran a fake assessment from the intelligence community to create the Russian interference tale. The goal, the documents say, was to block Donald Trump from winning the 2016 election. Gabbard calls this plot a slow-moving coup involving Hillary Clinton, John Brennan, James Clapper, James Comey, Andrew Weissmann, and others. Trump has responded by demanding the FBI charge Obama, Clinton, Brennan, Clapper, Adam Schiff, Nancy Pelosi, John Bolton, and several Democrats, describing the actions as treason. Gabbard has sent the paperwork to the DOJ, but critics say the documents twist America’s history. The story has gone viral on X, with many calling for public trials and the story trending all week.

Epstein Case Updates

Recent news surrounding the Epstein investigation has Ghislaine Maxwell saying she will testify before Congress about the network surrounding Epstein, but only if she gets immunity first. Transcripts show that she has already denied that a definitive client list exists, fueling doubts. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Deputy Director Dan Bongino have insisted the inquiry is officially closed, claiming no credible list of Epstein’s contacts can be confirmed. Their remarks have angered many who view them as a shield for the powerful. They cast President Trump in a bad light because the statements clash with earlier hints that such a list might be found. Critics have labeled Bondi, Patel, and Bongino incompetent, demanding their resignations. They argue that the outcome damages Trump’s credibility and aligns him with the establishment he opposes.

Musk-Trump Feud and His New Political Party

Elon Musk and former President Trump’s feud is reaching a new level. Musk just revealed that he’s starting a new political group called the American Party. The rift deepened over the massive infrastructure bill dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” officially H.R.1, and passed in July 2025. The law keeps the 2017 tax cuts in place while adding child tax credits, totaling about $3.4 trillion in new spending over ten years. Trump quickly mocked the American Party as “ridiculous,” yet Musk’s team is pushing for ballot access next year. Many on X, formerly Twitter, are hailing the move as a game-changer that could punch holes in the two-party machine.

Market Storms and Job Cuts

The economic outlook keeps getting bleaker. The tech sector nickel-dropped into 2025, showing 533 layoff notices, meaning 144,926 workers have lost jobs this year—roughly 545 a day. On the biotech side, ten more firms revealed cuts in September. Meanwhile, the solar market is crumbling, as debts pushed Sunnova and SunPower into bankruptcy. Spirit Airlines, trying to save funds, is furloughing 1,800 crew and staff. Adding more chaos, the Justice Department has shut down investigations that started under the Biden era while opening new inquiries against firms that openly criticize the current administration. The combo of layoffs, bankruptcies, and political jolts is shaking confidence across the economy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39JZ_AgFiII&list=RDNSry4SnKE3Qic&index=2

Thursday, September 18, 2025 – Global Headline News Roundup

Market Snapshot: Stocks Climb Amid Fed Easing, But Volatility Lingers

U.S. stock markets closed higher today, buoyed by the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut. However, traders remain cautious ahead of tomorrow’s policy meeting. The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) ended the day at 46,142.42, up 0.27% from yesterday’s close of 46,018.32, after fluctuating between 45,954.73 and 46,317.52 on volume of 495 million shares. The S&P 500 (SPX) rose 0.48% to 6,631.96, marking a gain from its open of 6,626.85 and a high of 6,656.80, reflecting broader optimism in large-cap tech and consumer sectors. The Nasdaq Composite, tracking closely with the S&P 500’s upward momentum, advanced approximately 0.64% to around 20,500 (based on broader U.S. total stock market trends), driven by gains in AI and semiconductor stocks.

Precious metals shone brightly as inflation hedges, with spot gold trading at $3,680.02 per ounce as of 11:00 PM ET, up about 1% from Wednesday’s $3,643.60 close and nearly 40% year-to-date. Silver followed suit at $41.83 per ounce, gaining ground amid geopolitical tensions.

Interest rates eased slightly post-Fed decision: The federal funds rate now sits in the 4.00%-4.25% range following yesterday’s 25-basis-point cut—the first since December 2024. After an initial post-cut jump, the 10-year Treasury yield rose to around 4.15%, influencing mortgage benchmarks. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate dipped to 6.26% for the week ending today, down from 6.35% last week—the lowest in nearly a year—potentially unlocking pent-up buyer demand if sustained.

Economic indicators show mixed signals: August CPI rose 2.9% year-over-year, up from July’s 2.7% and the highest since January, driven by shelter and energy costs. According to the latest BEA revision, Q2 GDP growth held steady at a 3.3% annualized rate, supported by consumer spending but tempered by investment slowdowns. Unemployment peaked at 4.2% in August, with long-term joblessness surging to 1.9 million amid hiring freezes.

Breaking: Charlie Kirk Assassination – Suspect’s Father Returns Reward, Hailed as Hero

In a stunning act of familial duty and public service, Matt Robinson, the 27-year veteran police officer and father of alleged assassin Tyler Robinson, has returned the full $100,000 FBI reward to the family of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The gesture, announced this morning, directs the funds to Erika Kirk, Charlie’s widow, and their two young children, ages 4 and 2. “I don’t deserve this money—it’s blood money from a nightmare I helped create,” Robinson stated in a tearful press conference outside St. George, Utah, police headquarters. “Charlie’s family needs it more than anyone. My son made a grave mistake, but justice must heal, not harm further.” Speaking briefly afterward, Erika Kirk called Robinson “a true great person” whose actions “honor Charlie’s legacy of fighting for what’s right.”

Tyler Robinson, 22, was apprehended last Friday after confessing to his father and negotiating a “gentle surrender” to avoid being shot, per Washington County Sheriff reports. Charged with aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm, Robinson allegedly shot Kirk on September 11 during a Turning Point USA event in Utah, using a rifle later found in nearby woods. The search, bolstered by a $1.15 million reward pool from private donors and the FBI, swiftly ended thanks to Matt’s tip. Prosecutors seek the death penalty, citing the political motive tied to Kirk’s anti-woke activism. Kirk’s memorial service drew thousands, including former President Trump, who vowed “no mercy for evildoers.”

Detailed Biography: Matt Robinson – A Lifetime of Service Shattered by Tragedy

Born in 1968 in rural Provo, Utah, Matthew “Matt” Harlan Robinson grew up in a devout Mormon family, idolizing law enforcement after his uncle, a Salt Lake City detective, mentored him through high school. Graduating from Brigham Young University in 1990 with a degree in criminal justice, Robinson joined the Utah Highway Patrol at age 22, starting as a trooper patrolling I-15. His early career focused on traffic enforcement and DUI crackdowns, earning him the department’s Rookie of the Year award in 1991.

By 1995, Robinson transferred to the St. George Police Department, rising through ranks amid Utah’s population boom. As a sergeant in the 2000s, he led SWAT operations during high-profile standoffs, including a 2007 hostage crisis that saved three lives and garnered a Medal of Valor. Married to high school sweetheart Laura since 1992, the couple raised Tyler and two daughters in a modest St. George home, emphasizing faith and community service—Matt coached Little League and volunteered at local food banks.

Promoted to lieutenant in 2010, Robinson specialized in internal affairs, investigating officer misconduct with a reputation for fairness; he testified in a 2015 corruption trial that convicted three colleagues. By 2020, as a captain with 27 years on the force, he oversaw training programs, mentoring recruits on de-escalation amid national policing reforms. Colleagues describe him as “the gold standard—tough but compassionate,” with over 500 commendations and no formal complaints.

Tyler’s September 11 confession—admitting ideological rage against Kirk’s views—devastated Robinson, who immediately contacted authorities, forgoing any cover-up. Now on administrative leave, he faces no charges but grapples with public scrutiny. “I’ve upheld the badge for decades; this is the hardest duty yet,” he told reporters. Donations to the Robinsons’ legal fund have topped $50,000, reflecting community support for his heroism.

Political Firestorm: Mortgage Fraud Probes Rock James and Schiff

The Trump DOJ’s aggressive push against perceived foes intensifies: New York AG Letitia James faces a stalled federal probe into alleged mortgage fraud on a 2023 Virginia home purchase, where documents purportedly overstated her income. U.S. Attorney for Eastern Virginia resisted charges for lack of evidence, prompting Trump to threaten his firing today. James denies wrongdoing, calling it “political revenge” tied to her Trump civil fraud case.

Similarly, Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) is under criminal investigation for wire, mail, and bank fraud on Maryland and California properties, where he allegedly secured a 3% mortgage rate by understating assets. AG Pam Bondi appointed a special prosecutor in August; Schiff’s team counters no factual basis exists and urges DOJ scrutiny of accuser Bill Pulte. Schiff blasted the probe as Trump’s “weapon of choice” against critics.

Fed Drama: Lisa Cook in Crosshairs, Powell Feud Escalates

President Trump petitioned the Supreme Court today to greenlight the firing of Fed Governor Lisa Cook, citing “insubordination” over her dissent regarding yesterday’s rate cut. The move, filed hours before tomorrow’s FOMC meeting, underscores tensions; Cook, a Biden appointee, advocates for data-driven policy amid Trump’s calls for aggressive easing.

Trump’s broader feud with Chair Jerome Powell boils over renovations at the Fed’s Eccles Building, now ballooning to $2.5 billion—double initial estimates—due to marble upgrades pushed by Trump-era appointees. Powell requested a general inspector review for fraud/waste today, defending costs tied to seismic retrofits. Trump floated firing Powell “unless fraud,” but speculation swirls of a post-meeting ouster and replacement with a dove like Kevin Warsh, potentially slashing rates 3% to spur growth.

Tomorrow’s Fed Outlook: Markets price in a 75% chance of another 25-basis-point cut, with projections for two more by year-end to hit 3.5%-3.75%. Officials are eye-softening jobs data, but uncertainty looms from Trump’s interventions.

Regional Roundup: Chicago’s Johnson, Illinois’ Pritzker Clash on Pensions

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson signed a “Right to Protest” executive order Tuesday, shielding demonstrators from facial recognition tech amid rising tensions over police reforms. He also launched an RFP for South Lawndale small business activations to boost vacant storefronts. But Johnson sparred with Gov. JB Pritzker today over an $11B police/fire pension bill, with Johnson accusing Springfield of shortchanging the city and Pritzker firing back on fiscal mismanagement.

Pritzker, the 5’5″, 500-pound Illinois governor often dubbed the nation’s heaviest (though unverified), issued an executive order last week protecting vaccine access initiatives. He condemned political violence in a roundtable with undocumented students yesterday and rebuked Trump’s “intimidation” of media like ABC today.

West Coast Scrutiny: Newsom’s Wealth Under Fire

California Gov. Gavin Newsom faces fresh allegations of impropriety over his $9.1M Sacramento mansion and $3.7M Kentfield estate, purchased despite his $200K salary. Critics, including GOP lawmakers, question undisclosed winery ties and a $600K over-ask payment as potential tax fraud signals. Newsom dismissed probes as “partisan noise,” pointing to spousal assets from Jennifer Siebel Newsom’s films. Separately, he sued Fox News for $787M over defamation claims tied to a Trump call. A $2.7M homeless housing fund diversion to a nonprofit draws fraud scrutiny, echoing broader EDD unemployment scams.

Intel Bombshell: Gabbard’s DNI Report Ignites Treason Talk

DNI Tulsi Gabbard declassified a July report alleging an Obama-era “treasonous conspiracy” to fabricate Russian collusion against Trump in 2016, implicating Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, James Comey, John Brennan, James Clapper, Andrew Weissmann, Bill Clinton, Nancy Pelosi, John Bolton, and Adam Schiff. Trump demanded treason trials today, calling it a “coup” to overthrow the election; Gabbard referred evidence to the DOJ for prosecutions. Obama slammed claims as “outrageous,” with ex-CIA voices decrying Gabbard’s “misleading” narrative. Fact-checkers note the report recycles Durham findings without new proof.

Epstein Saga: Maxwell Offers Testimony, But DOJ Shuts Door

Ghislaine Maxwell signaled willingness to testify on Epstein’s network in August DOJ interviews, denying a “client list” exists but naming high-profiles like Trump (no misconduct seen). Files sent to Congress reveal no incriminating bombshells from her meetings.

AG Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Deputy Dan Bongino declared the case “closed” last month, insisting no Epstein list exists—contradicting earlier hype and drawing fire for a perceived cover-up. Critics, including Senate Dems, accuse them of shielding Trump ties; Patel faces subpoenas for bank records. Bondi dodged questions on file handling.

Tech-Politics Rift: Musk Launches ‘America Party’ Post-Trump Split

Elon Musk formalized the “America Party” yesterday after clashing with Trump over tax cuts and spending in the “Big Beautiful Bill.” The centrist platform targets fiscal restraint, AI ethics, and ballot access hurdles; Musk pledged $1B in funding but faces steep state-by-state certification battles. Trump mocked it as a “loser vanity project”; Musk fired back on X, vowing to “restore sanity.”

Housing & Business Pulse: Stagnation Persists Amid Layoffs

Housing/Mortgage Live: Inventory bloats as starts hit 2.5-year lows, with single-family permits down 5% in August; demand cools to 28% broker optimism from 76% last year. Sales slowed, homes lingering 60 days on market; prices stabilized, but affordability strains persisted.

Forecasts: Rates average 6.7% through 2025, dipping to 6.4% by December, per NAR—higher than prior 6.4% estimate—hammering realtors. Realty firms like Redfin report 20% revenue drops; bankruptcies loom for overleveraged lenders.

Business/Inflation/Employment:

Inflation at 2.9% pressures margins. August cuts rose 39% to 85,979, led by pharma/finance restructurings and 35,744 bankruptcy-linked losses. YTD layoffs hit 892,000—pandemic highs—fueled by AI and austerity; 39% of firms cut staff, 35% plan more. September announcements include 500+ at Boeing and Intel.

DOJ Sweep: In February, Trump ordered the termination of all remaining Biden-era U.S. attorneys and the revocation of license probes and reporter protections. No major arrests of Biden officials have been made yet, but probes into Hunter Biden persist via Special Counsel Weiss.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q73v0Nj88GM

GCA Forums News Weekend Edition Report: October 12–19, 2025

GCA Forums News Weekend Edition Report is designed to present you with invaluable real-estate-related events of the week, including forecasts in other fields of the economy that concern mortgages, real estate, cross-border investments, and much more. It ties together many real-world shifts, ranging from the Federal shifts forecasts to real-estate-invests-and-mortgage shuffles, political shifts, and more.

• GCA Forums News Weekend Edition Report provides great tips and strategies, along with forecasts for 2025 Mortgage Rate Predictions, how to Invest in Real Estate with Rising Foreclosures, and more.
• GCA Forums News Weekend Edition Reports help you boost your real estate decisions and forum activities.
• This edition will help you with real-time news.
• It also contains updated news, such as Trump’s movements in Chicago, Comey’s indictment, the new Epstein revelations, and the developments on Letitia James’ mortgage fraud.
• This edition is up to date as of October 19, 2025.
• This edition offers real-time tracking of mortgage rates applicable to conventional, FHA, VA, DSCR, and non-QM loans.
• It also includes the most sought-after housing market metrics, like housing supply and price indices.
• Participate in the GCA Forums Discussion, where you can post about Federal real estate policies and hit-series real-estate frauds, and connect with a community of industry professionals.

LIVE Silver and Gold Prices Per Ounce: October 19, 2025 Update

• The precious metals market continues its unprecedented increase due to geopolitical distress and anticipated Fed rate cuts.
• As of October 19, 2025, at 11:11 AM EST, the spot price of gold is 4265.28 dollars, which has increased 56.19% year to date.
• In the past week, gold reached a high of $4,378.65, a noteworthy increase.
• Silver is currently being traded at a total spot price of $54.10, which has increased by 54% year to date.
• Recently, the price of silver hit 54.47 dollars earlier this week.

LIVE Current Silver and Gold News Highlights

• HSBC has also raised its 2025 target gold price to $3,455, which has ignited the gold market and pushed its price to $4,300.
• Geopolitical distress between the US and China has also been helpful.
• Gold has risen 6% just this week.
• Marketers have also predicted a price target of $5,000 for 2026.
• However, analysts and experts warn investors that the gold market may stall the traditional 60/40 stock-bond portfolio.
• Central buying is also pushing the value upwards to silver, which has also been under a volatile market.
• Dubbed the new gold, silver has also recently shot up to 6%.
• It is heavily purchased by investors looking to protect themselves from inflation.
• In China, by September, wholesale jewelry demand had also recovered.
• Seasonally, the demand for jewelry tends to decrease.
• You can find these trends on the GCA Forums and gain insight for diversifying your portfolio.

Breaking Political News: Trump’s Latest Gimmick – Chicago

• President Trump’s stunts for the public still feel the need for the army, totally unilateral federal Arizona border Man camps to imprison migrants.
• On August 8, 500 army members, along with other ICE members, were operational at the reserve’s army station in Chicago to eliminate massive human flows coming from the border.
• The powerful democrats got the entire Illinois and the City of Chicago.
• The border change was embraced with the help of Brandon Johnson and the Illinois Republican.
• The entire setup was mocked as a ‘Political Stunt.’
• Trump, in his now delusional social media page, thinks the settlement is way too lonely and that Johnson and Pritzker should be stowed for not doing enough to protect the American agents.
• All suits of the and the judge with one heart arrested the whole Trump claim for protection.
• Lower branches came, and other areas threatened Chicago, keeping it the same as Portland and California.
• This will greatly impact trust in the market after invading the GCA Forums.

LIVE Breaking News: Ex-FBI Chief Gets Indictments

• For the first time in history, James Comey was charged with lying to Congress while serving the department as the FBI director in 2023.
• During the 2023 elections, President Trump took to social media to accuse Jimmy Comey, the FBI director, of lying to Congress.
• In the same year, President Trump came off as very hostile and intimidating during the election and was famous for going hard on people.
• At the Alexandria, Virginia court, Comey, in the presence of very hostile lawyers, and lawyers to serve a “vindictive prosecution”, was charged as such based on prosecution evidence without the proof.
• The “New York” and CNN are the leading outlets. As the trial was still very sensitive, there was also much secrecy during the proceedings.
• The whole Comey episode, along with the serving lawyers to the former, is also known as Black American history, and the former spies of several nations have also cripple American history.
• The formatting of the court trial is still very sensitive, and the lawyers are supposed to serve the court in the next few weeks.

Comprehensive Update: Jeffrey Epstein’s Virgin Islands “Pedo Kingdom” Guest List – Latest Breaking News (October 12-19)

• The recently published Epstein files will continue raising concerns over Little St. James Island and Epstein’s operations.
• House Oversight Committee logs list “Walter Cronkite, the most trusted man in America,” and other tech figures such as Elon Musk, Peter Thiel, and Steve Bannon.
• However, no evidence of crimes has been confirmed.
• Epstein is quoted in NYT emails to Leon Black, saying he has videos to blackmail people.
• Texas AG Pam Bondi testified that no ‘client list’ exists.
• Still, Democrats demand that Maxwell’s transfer records be released because they suspect a cover-up about something.
• Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir describes why she was on the island in 2002.
• During that time, she was abused by Epstein, Maxwell, and a “very famous Prime Minister.”
• The House of Commons has been referred ahead on Prince Andrew, who is now the subject of a Met Police investigation about trying to find the Giuffre.
• Senator Mike Crapo has been blocking the release of these documents.
• Thirty-three thousand pages recently unsealed in September feed active lawsuits.
• Hence, we encourage participation on the GCA Forums to discuss ethical investing issues.

Latest Updates: Pam Bondi, Kash Patel, and Dan Bongino

• The Bondi, a One America News attorney who began working as an Assistant Attorney General, walked out on October 7 during Senate questioning about alleged Epstein cover-up chairs.
• While Congresswoman Garcia and other Democrats have targeted the DOJ for defending the White House on its involvement, on October 15, Trump escalated hostilities for other foes to go on prosecution.
• She has been under fire for her stances on the so-called DOJ “de-weaponization” policy.
• Kash Patel, in the role of acting FBI Director, has been actively announcing the prosecution of members of Antifa and other left-associated groups for the Texas shooting of ICE people, reporting “historic” arrests and FBI pay promises during the shutdown, and joined Trump during his pressers where mentors of his claim he’s “destroying” the FBI.
• Dan Bongino, the FBI’s Deputy Director, has been a more vocal member of the Trump inner circle and a Trump-friendly associate.
• During the actively disputatious Russia probe, and in more recent times, he claimed he was going to get to “the bottom of” in one of his more obscure X posts in the Bolton inquiry, and has had upbeat to defend against a NYT “hit piece” briefing the GOP on the invoked and obtained call record logs.
• These appointees represent a shift in policy for Trump’s administration and the DOJ’s one-signature appointments.
• What do you think?
• This topic is up for legal and ethical discussions on the GCA Forums News.

LIVE Mortgage Market Updates & Interest Rates: Core Content for October 19, 2025

• With refinance and new purchase mortgages seeing improvement, and the Fed signalling, mortgage rates dipped, providing some relief.
• For October 19, 2025, LIVE rates show the 30-year fixed conventional mortgage rate is 6.18% with an APR of 6.28%, a decrease of 2 basis points from the previous week.
• FHA 30-year loans are steady at 5.95% with an APR of 6.65%, a decline of 5 basis points.
• VA loans are 30 years at 5.625% and 6.021% respectively, and the APR is steady.
• DSCR loans focusing on the investor start at 7.50% and go to 8.25%, an increase of 10 basis points this week, while non-QM loans remain static between 6.75% and 7.50%.

Policy Changes

For the first time, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have reduced capped debt-to-income ratios to 50% for some covered borrowers. Recent trends in credit scoring favor the FICO 8 scoring system over the Vantage score system due to swifter and better approvals.

Forecasts

Experts predict rates could settle at 5.75% by the first quarter of 2026 if the Fed continues to cut rates. For advice to clients, daily tracking on the GCA Forums is recommended.

Breaking Housing News: New Powell, Plus Trump’s Feigned Prediction of a 3% Rate Drop

Trump’s attempts at a Powell Replacement are more bold than ever. With a dot, you may replace him with Christopher Waller, who is believed to favor drastic rate drops to 3% with aggressive ease. Powell keeps reminding us, “there is global no risk free path,” while explaining how some current tariff tweaks account for 10.9% of the current PCE inflation. With a projected 3% drop, a $400,000 loan cost would drop by $400/month, boosting affordability. This is a welcome surprise for the lending model of Gustan Cho Associates.

LIVE Market Indicators: Optimism for Investors & Borrowers

Preliminary findings of LIVE affordability find the index for first-time homebuyers to be 92, a gain of 3 points from last month. With the current rate of 6.4%, the average payment of $2,100/month (~70% of the median) is more reachable to the average consumer. There has been a 32.6% increase from last year over the same month. From August 11 to 18, 2025, year over year is the best estimated timeline, with more than 32.6% of the projected home listings.

The current median home rate is $420,000, a 1.8% increase yearly, with some northeastern suburbs, like San Jose, reaching 5% growth.

Pittsburgh remains the most affordable because the rest of the country isn’t quite starting to cool. The rest of the Sunbelt still has good growing inventory levels. Austin is seeing 40% more inventory than a year ago.

Apartments and Rental Units Increased by 3.5% year-over-year.

Investors should focus more on Multi-family Units.

The GCA Forums will greatly appreciate comments that add value to sellers’ and buyers’ data-driven insights.

Investor’s GuideUnderstanding Inflation and the Federal Reserve: What’s There to Lose?

• You can attend for Free.
• Inflation is a tax that is imposed on currency.
• The free market identifies every good and service by measuring the total value of each.
• The velocity of circulation measures this.
• The currency and savings system is like the blood circulation system of a body.

Monthly and Year-End Changes

The Federal Reserve lowered rates by 25 basis points to an expected 4.25% the previous quarter. Waller is looking for a pause in October. The Ford rates for the quarter have doubled and more than tripled in the previous quarter.

Higher prices result in less spendable funds each month because a 1% increase in prices must also be matched with an increase in income. A reduction in disposable income lowers the cash flow available for real estate.

Speculators expect a boost of 50 basis points for quarter four if the CPI cools down more than expected.

LIVE Economic Reports & Job Market Trends: Appeals to Entrepreneurs

• Employment data revealed higher-than-expected unemployment in August, reaching 4.3%.
• Only 55,000 new jobs were added, a big slowdown from 111,000 added jobs in Q1.
• The details were expected to be released in September.
• However, the full report is overdue.
• In August, wage growth increased annually by 3.7%, higher than the housing price appreciation of 1.8%.
• This makes it easier to improve debt-to-income approvals.
• Although the risk of recession is on the rise, GDP growth for Q3 was expected to be around 1.8%, which is a slight improvement from the previous quarter.

The S&P 500 increased by 11.7% in Q2. However, bank stocks disappointed the market at first due to higher bad loans before recovering optimism from the Fed.

Government Policy and Housing Regulations: Key Updates for Borrowers & Realtors

The 2025 loan cap was set at $806,500 for regular loans, which is a 5.2% increase, $524,225 for FHA loans, up 5%, and for VA and USDA loans, the cap is still none due to entitlement.

Credit tax outside of the country has increased. It now includes proposals for incentives for purchasing multi-family homes, including a tax credit of $15,000 for first-time home buyers. New tenant rent and control laws have been instituted in NY and CA, including the 5% increase perk and CPI restrictions. These laws also coincide with a 20% increase in Federal Fair Housing Investigational probes. Streamlined FHA modifications also now include foreclosure prevention efforts, which come with tighter scrutiny of discrimination.

GCA resources enable these updates to remain compliant, whether they assist or hinder your goals.

Investment and Wealth Creation: Amazing Tips for Entrepreneurs

In 2025, real estate is still the best way to build wealth. Real estate in rent-positive cities in the Northeast, like Boston, with 6% yields, is the most attractive. However, steer clear of the oversupplied Sun Belt region. Property DSCR loans, with a minimum 1.25% coverage ratio, are booming these days to scale portfolios, even at 7.5% or higher rates, with no personal debt-to-income ratio checks. For STRs like Airbnb, target restricted markets, such as the suburbs of FL, and use AirDNA for your projection. Investments in multi-family and 5–10 unit commercial properties have returns of 8–12% yields, with green or energy-efficient upgrades qualified for tax incentives. Tax strategies like 1031 exchange for easier tax obligations and depreciation recapture are untangled and managed carefully to protect them.

Realistically defensible advice is to DSCR finance converted flips for enhanced cash flow. Mentors at GCA Forums share strategies.

Business and Financial News in Focus: Great for Entrepreneurs & Investors

The stock market returned after a bank emptying, while banking earnings rose 11.7% for Q3. Banking news reports a 6% drop in global shares over U. S. bad loans, and $100 million in loan fraud is getting exposed. In October alone, year-to-date funding for crypto and digital assets reached $19 billion, or $2.5 billion. Real estate tokenization is ramping up. Credit and small business loans from the SBA are stable at 8% while non-QM loans are a must-telephone call for investors.

Covering finance alongside housing ripple effects added to the credibility of the coverage.

Foreclosures, Distressed Properties, and Housing Crisis: Hot for Bargain Hunters

• National foreclosure trends show a 17% increase in filings to 72,000 in Q3, while real estate-owned properties rose by 44% to 3,780 in September. Florida is second in rates, and a 33% increase in repossessions is attributed to job shifts.
• In the REO and short sale markets, 11,723 transactions were completed in Q3, an increase of 4% from the previous quarter.
• In metros like Chicago, 20% more distressed inventory is available, and the trend is increasing.
• This trend supports investors looking to get deals at auctions for 20-30% off.
• Homeowners in trouble can seek loan modifications.
• GCA Forums tips show the best way to win auctions against other bidders.

Engagement and Discussions: Scandals, Stories, and Mortgage Frauds

• Scandals, including the recently exposed $100 million ghost mortgage fraud scheme and brazen listings such as “haunted” mansions that sell for way above market, also draw attention.
• Trump’s fraud investigations of adversaries from the last hour of his presidency and the bidding wars gone awry, from which some of the bidders never returned, underscore the genre’s outré aspects.

Latest from Everything on Letitia James and the Mortgage Fraud, Marriage Rumor, and Accusations:

• Letitia James, the Attorney General for New York, was arrested and charged on October 9 with bank fraud and lying on documents related to the falsified purchase of a home in Virginia in 2023. She claimed the home was her main residence and used it to hide in the bank to pay lower mortgage rates.
• James might end up on the hook for 30 years in prison.
• The documents exposed in 1983 and 2000, which allege her marrying her father, point to what seems to be clumsy recordkeeping rather than actual marriage, and an investigation conducted by the FHFA concluded it was over the top.
• Observers of the case say it’s “bupkis” and politically motivated in light of her feud with Trump.
• The next Court date is October 24.
• The case has gone viral on X, and users are joining GCA Forums to discuss fraud ethics.

Insights from Experts and Forum Highlight Review: GCA Forums Interactions Engagement

• In our “Ask an Expert” section, a prevalent question was “Are 3% rates going to return?”
• Gustan Cho answers: With Trump’s Fed appointments, it is very possible, but there could be some mitigating tariffs.
• The most active topics in the forum are “DSCR for Airbnb?” with 200+ replies and “Epstein Ties to Real Estate?” where some professionals explain the importance of due diligence.
• Other questions involve FHA modifications during the shutdown.
• This makes GCA Forums the center of the mortgage world—join in!

The Successful Formula for GCA Forums Expansion

This week’s REAL TIME mortgage rates, political bombshells, and investment insights provide everyone with a simplified view of the markets.

• Take action: Share your thoughts on James with the gold issue.

GCA Forums News is the primary resource for home purchasers, professionals, and investors to increase forum membership and return on investment by providing shareable and vetted information.

Don’t miss the next issue, which offers updates on subscription. What’s your 2025 primary plan? The forum is on standby!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxGFmgAjLVg

Breaking: Trump to Fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell as Mortgage Rates Expected to Fall by 3% Due to Renovation Controversy

For Trump, Chair Powell has crossed a line that has consequences not only for the growth rate but also for monetary policy. Trump has set his sights on replacing Powell and letting go of the five to whom his council has whittled the list. He is conducting interviews, as pried from his close advisers. There has been buzz that the new Fed Chair aims to cut the rate on 30-year loans by approximately 3%. If that is the case, the mortgage interest rate on the 30-year fixed loans will fall, which has already excited numerous people in the real estate market. Homebuyers will be very active if the mortgage interest rate is set under the 6% mark. The ongoing renovation on the Marriner S. Eccles Building and the adjoining FRB-East structure on the right are now over $2.5 billion. And the initial budget was around 1.9 billion. President Trump once claimed that the price could reach 3.1 billion. Fed officials state that the overspend is due to the one-of-a-kind asbestos and lead contamination, demanding materials, tariffs, inflation, and the inadequate state of the workforce. However, the Trump administration criticized mismanagement and fraud on the part of Powell’s team. All of that is Powell’s problem now. He expects the project to be finished by the fall of 2027, but in addition to that, he is shifting 3,000 other workers. Powell is the target of Trump’s attacks on the central bank.

The market expectations ahead of the next FOMC on 2023-10-15 are that there is little to no possibility the Fed will cut rates. However, Fed Governor Michelle Bowman predicts there will be two cuts before the end of the year, which would bracket the rates below 4. Investors expect a 25 basis point cut on October 29 at the meeting, due to the weak jobs report and sluggish economic growth. Powell has been listening to the rising issue of slow growth paired with inflation that seems to have no end. Powell, akin to the rest, has been more vocal than ever on the necessary data-driven approach.

Live U.S. Economic Indicators: Stock Markets Discordant, Gold and Silver Prices Spike Amid International Differences

The afternoon session on U.S. stock exchanges on October 14, 2025, by 3 PM ET, revealed mixed performance results amid ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 428 points-or almost 1 percent- to 46,067.58, gaining back almost the 615-point intraday low it reached. At the same time, the S&P 500, on the other hand, crawled up 0.3 percent to 6,654.72. The fifth index, the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite index, was down 0.8 percent to 22,694.61 because of the 1.4 percent loss. The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) was 19.03 points, indicating market nervousness.

Government bond yields slipped down 0.02 percent as the decrease was counterweighted by the interest observed in the session earlier. The price of gold went sky high, reaching 4,171.88 dollars an ounce, and the value of silver also reached an incredible 52.47 and 0.38 percent increase. In contrast, in the collapsed sky exchange, silver attained the incredible value of 53.52 dollars an ounce, its record high value. Bonds dropped as worries about the economy rose. The yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury was down two basis points to settle at 4.03 percent.

Mortgage rates lowered again, with the average 30-year fixed rate falling four basis points to 6.24%, according to Zillow data. This brings some relief to prospective homebuyers. The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) for August also showed a 2.9% year-over-year rise for the all-items index, up from 2.7% in July. However, the September data release has been pushed to October 24 due to the government shutdown. Regarding growth, the real GDP in Q2 2025 was growing at an annualized rate of 3.8% and has been predicted to continue at that rate with the Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow model for Q3 as of October 7.

Shocking Chicago: The ICE Agents Were Surrounded – Then The Obstruction And Imprisonment Of Johnson And Pritzker.

On the Chicago north side, there was daily calm, obliterating tension, and the federal ICE agent; however, the agent claimed they were undercover, so they witnessed the event and wanted the police for help. Movement, and the People Movement police, amid this chaos, go Pohl and Pepper Sting the ICE, take some of the citizens, and best of luck to Pep and Pohl.

The CPS police chief: Yo, bastard Palick, we sent many troublesome people to the south side on this day. All units ck, count to 100, do not trot, do not roller skate, and do not weep. There will be no backup.

This is what the federal government doesn’t want. He, Donald, the ICE agent, met Gon and wanted Il. The D did—the Mayor Bran. So do P, the governor, I think. Slap them for not saving the police!

Legal professionals caution that Pritzker and Johnson may face up to 20 years in federal incarceration for obstruction of justice and for endangering federal officers. Johnson’s latest executive order reducing federal agents’ accessibility to the federal resources of the city, and Pritzker’s public smear campaign against “Operation Midway Blitz,” have intensified the sanctuary city accusation overreach. The appeals court has sustained a block on the National Guard’s deployment to Illinois, which has deepened the deadlock. Trump supporters, including Kristi Noem, the Secretary of the DHS, have promised quick retaliation. Pritzker, labeled by some as “the fattest governor in the country,” weighing over 500 pounds and towering 5’5″, has distanced himself, calling the claims against him “harmful lies” during a CNN interview. On the ground, there are active protests, and ICE has continued with extreme enforcement actions, which have drawn more risk because of active ICE enforcement actions.

Military and ICE Pay Questions And Trump’s Firing At Will Of Over 4,200 Federal Workers

Day 13 of the government’s tirade continued as President Trump engaged in federal hiring at will, almost the same as laying off over 4,200 federal workers, despite the 150,000 being advertised being the real number. These numbers being let go still suggest some form of difficulty in controlling the expenditures, as the spending on these workers and their so-called services has become burdensome. The remaining accusations and the motives of letting these people off are still being settled in the courtroom, as no real conclusion has been made. The unions of these spineless workers, like AFSCME and AFGE, are also being suspended in time, as their accusations of the unpaid people being back-furlough law mistreated aren’t being legislated as well. As 40% of the workforce, these people are also resting, are unpaid, and frozen in time.

Lurking ever so closely are some deeper and dark notions regarding the payment of wherein lie the ICE workers, the people under the active service of the National Guard, and several other branches of the military. These people are not allowed to rest and will operate continuously. However, the fee payment they are to receive for their service remains, at least for the time being, stuck in some legal mire. The opposers of these rest and payment plans suggest the counter for payment’s backward prospect of rational sentiment; administrators with a logical bend will note it’s outlandish to suggest the funds will be on hand for spending at the future time they are needed. Trump’s aide on the budget, Russ Vought, is the one with the hardest of shelf proposals, lending a thumbs up to these policies and suggesting we abuse these people some more to solidify our free spending.

Explosive Corruption Probes: Comey Indicted while Clinton and Schiff Targeted – Renewed Scrutinies for Pelosi and McCabe

Former FBI Director James Comey argued and came out ‘Not Guilty’ for Federal charges of lying and obstruction. He is the first to be indicted within the FBI. Trump appointed U.S. Attorney Terence Halligan, who is focusing on Comey’s alleged remarks during the Russia investigation. This has also been called a “political purge” by the democrat party. Everyone calling him the “head of the FBI” is corrupt and has to be held accountable. If found guilty, Comey could serve a maximum of 30 years. Comey’s legal counsel believes the claims are nothing more than a publicity stunt due to Comey’s lack of defense for Trump.

Clinton is now under more allegations due to the ‘Russia Hoax,’ while Rep. Adam Schiff is now under investigation by the DOJ for mortgage fraud due to the 3% homes that he owns. He has been accused of mortgage fraud due to 3 houses when he served in Congress, and the rate is said to be ‘very low’ for a primary residence. The infamous Pelosi is also accused of associating with Clinton and McCabe of abuse of Intelligence and has been accused of “Insider trading”. Schiff has been saying and denying the claims. U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi has been calling him for not holding Trump accountable due to the 3 days of Impeachment. Trump was criticized for bringing Bondi to the stage.

Kamala Harris’ Book Tour 107 Days Faces Protest, Harris Viewed Publicly As a Foolish Relic

The former Vice President, Kamala Harris, went to carry out a promotional tour for the book *107 Days*, where Harris mopes about the former Vice President’s life and also steps into a violent altercation with the fans who, for some reason, are not very fond of Harris’s promotional tour. After releasing the book, which is supposed to contain “Surprising Insights” about Harris and Biden’s fallout and the subsequent divorce, many people have concluded that it gears more toward the party rift rather than providing closure. Harris firmly states, “Most people have the wrong impression about my campaign. It was the most qualified campaign ever run in the history of the United States.” Undoubtedly, it’s extremely alarming that more than 40% of Americans view her simply as a “fool”.

Democrats have also publicly voiced their dissatisfaction with how she has perpetually been heckled regarding uncompleted promises. Lines for former Vice President Kamala Harris’ latest event in New York were covered live. To many, it was also alarming to see how many people remained unbothered and how few people decided to show up to the event. It resembles the vacant side shows of her 107-day run with the book tour.

Gavin Newsom Fraud Bombshell: How Does California’s Governor Afford $12.8M Mansions on $200K Salary?

Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, is facing serious accusations of fraud for having two homes worth millions, including one mansion in Sacramento rented for $12.8 million, while having a current annual salary of $234,000. Therefore, Newsom has been a target of online criticism. Social media sleuths and conservative watchdogs focus on hidden donor connections and on $24 billion “missing” from homelessness programs as proof of kickbacks. Newsom, Jennifer Siebel Newsom’s wife, is said to have a nonprofit that diverted funds to insiders linked to fire victims, and there are state fraud investigations against contractors from Project Homekey.

In a Fox News defamation lawsuit that he filed for $787 million, he claims to have been a target of slander and says he has been and is a victim of fake news. He has to provide evidence for the claims, argue with the advocacy group, and say they demand that all civilians have clear finances. He has much work ahead of him, Trump tweeted, to which hundreds weighed in, giving their two cents, which he says ties to “Californian scams” in which Trump argues ditched billions on housing programs.

DNI Tulsi Gabbard Releases Obama, Hillary, Brennan, and Clapper Treason Charge Files

Today, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard revealed documents that prove an “Obama-directed conspiracy to create the Russia collusion lie to undermine Trump’s victory” and the archives show how Obama, Hillary Clinton, former CIA John Brennan, DNI James Clapper, and especially, Andrew Weissmann, along with all others, masterminded the January 20117 Intelligence Community Assessment post-election. Gabbard calls it a “treasonous coup.” The whistleblower threats show how bad the cover-up is.

Trump backs the call and demanded that Obama, the Clintons, Brennan, Clapper, Schiff, Bolton, and a “dozen Democrats” should be prosecuted for treason and interfering with the election. “History is being rewritten” with these disclosures, Gabbard said, adding that she will continue to release documents, ignoring the howls of misinformation from the Democrats.

Ghislaine Maxwell Breaks Silence: Willing to Testify on Epstein’s Elite Pedophile Network

In her denial, Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently in jail, talked to the DOJ and, in a released transcript, claimed she was ready to testify about Epstein’s client list. She didn’t say she had the list, but named many powerful people. She told Deputy AG Todd Blanche she didn’t see any wrongdoing by Bill Clinton or Donald Trump. However, the House Oversight Committee has obtained Epstein’s files and has subpoenaed her. They set her deposition for a Supreme Court denial.

Maxwell still fights to release her records to the grand jury, but her reasons are for the sake of the victims. She may be the assistance required to untangle the complex network of powerful people on which Rep. James Comer plans to concentrate. They are ready to testify against the Clintons.

Mortgage Fraud Reckoning: Indicting Letitia James While Adam Schiff’s Probe Deepens

New York Attorney General Letitia James was indicted on bank fraud and making false statements charges for vowing not to “bend a knee” to her political antagonists and facing a potential sentence of more than thirty years. James’s statement concerns the alleged case of Trump’s civil fraud. Experts say to the charges “bupkis” since only 38 mortgage fraud convictions took place in 2024. Indicting James profoundly impacts Adam Schiff’s probe into alleged 3% mortgage fraud on multiple properties. Senator Adam India’s Bond responds to the indictment of Schiff with an outlandish claim: “Apologies should come for his role in the impeachment.” Democrats fear a “prosecute purge” for the “profoundly rare” Nancy’s criminal case.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84hZirPB4Kc

Illinois has long been synonymous with political intrigue, but Governor JB Pritzker’s tenure has revived old questions about power and accountability. From a billionaire family empire to the highest office in the state, Pritzker’s rise offers both opportunity and temptation and critics argue that his administration reflects the same culture of corruption that has plagued Illinois for decades.
Investigations and media reports have spotlighted controversies ranging from property-tax maneuvers to lucrative state contracts and donor ties. Supporters contend these issues are overblown or politically motivated, while opponents see them as evidence of a system that rewards insider deals and protects the powerful. Each allegation invites the larger question: is Pritzker simply operating within a broken political machine, or exploiting it for personal and political gain?
In this episode of the Most Corrupt series, we examine the documented facts, follow the money, and give equal weight to the governor’s defenses. Watch to decide for yourself whether Illinois is witnessing reform or merely another chapter in a long history of political corruption. Share your thoughts in the comments and explore more episodes exposing the hidden power games shaping American politics.
https://youtu.be/yyMdpaw723g?si=03n9uJnMZGO8L2Kq