National Daily Comprehensive Headline News, including the latest Southern California wildfires, inflation, stock and bond markets, rates, and overview of important news in the United States for Friday January 10th, 2025. On January 10, 2025, there will be a roundup of major national news covering the fires in Southern California, economic indicators, and national markets.

Southern California Wildfires:

Wildfires are raging in southern California, and roughly 36,685 acres of land have been burned, mostly in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Palisades Fire, Hurst Fire, and Eaton Fire are the main ones. These fires have resulted in the death of not less than ten people, destruction or damage to over 13,400 structures, and evacuation of close to 180,000 residents. Adding to the problem are severe Santa Ana winds that blow with speeds above 80-100 miles per hour and dry weather conditions. Authorities are examining the causes emphasizing extreme climate patterns.

Economic Indicators:

Employment Data:

• In December alone, the U.S. economy added more jobs than anticipated – a total of 256 thousand – thereby reducing unemployment rates.
• This noteworthy increase in employment suggests a robust labor market that could influence the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy choices.

Inflation Concerns:

• Anticipated import tariffs have pushed consumer inflation expectations, leading to concerns that prices may rise in the coming months.

Financial Markets:

Bond Market:

• Following yesterday’s strong employment report, U.S. Treasury yields jumped, with the 10-year yield nearing five percent.
• This change reflects investors’ readjustment of their forecasts for Federal Reserve interest rates.

Stock Market:

• The main U.S. stock indices fell, including the S&P500 (1.5%), DJIA (1.4%), and Nasdaq (1%).
• Investors worry that continued economic strength may mean higher interest rates, impacting corporate earnings and valuations.

Outlook on Interest Rate:

• The Federal Reserve, which started to cut rates in September 2024, is now expected to maintain current interest rates for longer.
• Some analysts argue that the Fed may contemplate raising rates in 2025 if inflationary pressures intensify.

Other Developments

Corporate Bond Issuance:

• Major American companies are issuing bonds faster and faster to capture current borrowing costs, keeping rising Treasury yields in mind.
• This week, $62.7 bn was raised across 39 issuers—a record.

Public Health Emergency

The U.S. Department of Health has declared a public health emergency for California due to wildfires to facilitate federal help for affected communities.

In summary, America faces several challenges, including huge wildfires in Southern California and economic dynamics marked by strong employment numbers, increasing inflation outlooks, and unstable financial markets.

• This discussion was modified 2 months, 3 weeks ago by  Tom Miller.

As of the week ending on April 25, 2024, the average rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is reported at approximately 7.877%. It’s important to note that these rates have seen some fluctuations, and various factors including economic conditions and the borrower’s credit profile influence the final rate offered. For those considering refinancing, the average rate for a 30-year fixed-rate refinance loan has slightly increased to about 8.425%​​.

Mortgage rates are significantly influenced by economic factors, personal financial details of the borrower, and the specific conditions of the mortgage market at the time. For instance, someone with a strong credit score and a substantial down payment might secure a lower rate, while those with lower credit scores or smaller down payments might face higher rates​​.

If you’re thinking of securing a mortgage or refinancing your current one, it would be beneficial to compare rates from multiple lenders to find the best deal for your situation. As of April 30, 2024, the housing market is showing signs of resilience and growth in certain areas despite ongoing challenges like high mortgage rates and affordability issues. Key insights include:

• Home sales have seen a mix of increases and decreases depending on the region. Nationally, existing home sales have improved month-over-month but are still below the levels from the previous year. New home sales show slight growth compared to the previous year, indicating a shift where more buyers are opting for new homes due to the low supply of existing homes​ (Freddie Mac – We Make Home Possible)​.

• The National Association of Realtors (NAR) forecasts a significant increase in existing-home sales to 4.71 million for 2024, which is up from the previous year. This growth is expected to be concentrated in markets with high demand such as Austin, Texas, which is noted as a top market to watch due to pent-up housing demand​ (http://www.nar.realtor)​.

• Mortgage rates have remained steady with an average of around 6.8% as of March, impacting both buying and refinancing activities. Although this presents challenges, there’s an uptick in both refinance activity and purchase applications as the market adapts to these conditions​ (Freddie Mac – We Make Home Possible)​.

Overall, while the housing market faces headwinds from higher rates and price pressures, certain regions are experiencing growth, and there’s a general sense of cautious optimism as the market adapts to the economic landscape of 2024.

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

Value of Silver will outpace Value of Gold as precious metals skyrocket. Silver trade in a thin market. Plus Silver has investment Value as well as practical industrial Value. In 2011 Value of Silver doubled to $45 per ounce. Trading of Silver opened higher today. Start stacking Silver today.

https://youtu.be/jYV3vi-ysPk?si=oC1zFZqFGjY8B6AU

National Daily Comprehensive Mortgage, Real Estate, Business, and Economic News, including the latest stock and bond markets, gold and silver prices, crypto currency, rates, and overview of important housing and finance news in the United States for Friday, January 10th, 2025.

NEXA Mortgage has independent loan officer branch manager opportunities and loan officer opportunities under a producing branch. You now have the opportunity to run your own P and L business in the mortgage industry. You are your own boss and run your own mortgage company the way you seem fit. CEO Michael Kortas gives the entreprenuer loan officer their own keys to take it where they want to. The sky is the limit. CEO Mike has a hands off policy and never tells you what to do. CEO Kortas is there to help you and will never say NO if you have great ideas in expanding your own business. You can run your mortgage broker business as a dba of NEXA Mortgage. Becoming a NEXA mortgage branch is better than owning your own mortgage company. Contact me at 262-627-1965 or email me directly at gcho@gustancho.com. Please post any questions on this forum or private message me.

https://gustancho.com/career-opportunities/

gustancho.com

NEXA Career Opportunities » Mortgages » Realtor - MLO

Career Opportunities as mortgage loan originators, mortgage processors, account managers, loan processors, mortgage underwriters now available

Below are the steps to create a business directory:

Step1: Click on business form top or here is link https://gcaforums.com/business/

Step 2: Click on Create a Business

Step 3: Enter the details like Business Name, Business Description and select the category of your business and click on create business blue button.

Step 4: Upload business profile picture and click on next button.

Step 5: Upload the cover photo and click on visit business

Now you business page created. Now there are more addition information which you can add in your business page like phone number, address , social media links etc.

So for these setting go to your business page which you created and click on Setting option. Where you can add all information which you want.

Here’s a broad summary of the front page news for Wednesday, January 1, 2025: Worldwide Celebrations and Events New Year Celebrations Across The World:

Celebrations like these were commonplace as 2025 was welcomed for a new decade in every corner of the world. New York City Times Square grew with a buzz as people celebrated and marked the start, while 2024 was on the verge of ending, one of the best places for fans to enjoy the new year.

Sydney’s First Baby for 2025:

Australia welcomes its first child in Sydney. Born around 12:32 AM in Royal Cohen for Women, Shawn Cedric Biansi was a true treat for his parents as the family assumed his delivery would be later in the month rather than the first of the new year.

Technology And Business

Apple Technology That Can Be Expected in 2025:

According to reports, Apple will release a smart home command center device and other gadgets, including an iPhone 17, a facial identification camera doorbell, a smart security camera, and much more. With these products, the company aims to tap into the expanding market of smart home technologies.

Sports

Pro Bowl Voting Results:

Jayden Daniels was voted the favorite for the Quarterbacks and overtook stars Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and Patrick Mahone.

In addition, several players of the Washington Commanders team performed ripe in fan votes, hinting at a fruitful season for the team.

Expectations For 2025

Speculative Forecasts:

Experts have hypothesized many things that can happen in 2025, such as political shifts, anticipating technological shifts, and undergoing cultural changes. Although all these forecasts are speculative, they assist in building expectations for trends or happenings in the upcoming year.

Forecasting The Weather

Polar Vortex Warning:

According to meteorologists, the eastern part of the United States might see freezing temperatures in January 2025 due to the polar vortex. If their predictions are accurate, then history will be made, as 2014 was the last time January was freezing. This prediction can be juxtaposed with the warm temperature readings in 2024.

Legal and Policy Changes

New Policies For Tasmania:

Australia underwent several legislative changes that came into effect on January 1, 2025. These include the mandating of electronic identification devices for all sheep, goats, and bobby calves to strengthen biosecurity, restriction of any activities associated with engineered stone because of health issues, and modifications to the provisions within the Historic Cultural Heritage Act to enhance the level of protection for heritage sites.

Laws In Florida:

The laws now instituted in Florida include restricting minors from using social media and providing protection to first responders.

Changes in law will focus on child protection issues, safety while on the internet, and the treatment of paramedics.

Increased Minimum Wage for the State of Virginia:

As of the first day of January 2025, the wage rate will increase from twelve United States dollars to twelve United States dollars and forty-one cents per hour. This will also be included in the minimum wage plan to reach fifteen United States dollars by 2026 to compensate the state’s employees fairly.

New Traffic Laws and Safety Measures in Colorado

Since January 1, 2025, the existing traffic laws have been altered. They now include no sitting while driving while holding a cell and tightening child seat belt laws. All these regulations have been enacted to increase children’s safety in cars.

INCIDENTS

New Orleans Attack:

• A horrifying event happened in New Orleans, Louisiana, involving a vehicle ramming and shooting attack, which caused over 30 injuries and 10 death tolls.
• Its surrounding areas have been cordoned off for security purposes as the motive for the attack is still unknown.

Since news developments are very new, the information is likely incorrect. Contact political sources or other official news channels that provide up-to-date information for accurate data.

Newest Updates for January 1, 2025

New Year’s 2025 live updates:

• New York City bands goodbye to 2024, welcoming 2025 from Times Square.
• New leaked home gadgets we have never seen before have surfaced.
• New Apple tech expected to be unveiled in 2025 has also been leaked.
• In 2025, the US is expected to be warmed by the Polar Vortex and experience unreasonably low temperatures.

Comprehensive Overview and Summary of Mortgage and Real Estate, and Business News for Wednesday January 1st, 2025.

Below is the summary regarding mortgages, real estate, and business news for Wednesday, January 1, 2025:

Mortgage and Real Estate BriefUnited States:

Housing Market Activity:

A slowdown in the United States housing market was observed in early 2024 owing to stagnated mortgage rates and an increase in home prices. New listings scalped for the first time since June 2023 while the pending home sales growth decelerated.

Mortgage Rates:

Throughout 2024, mortgage rates were chaotic, and as a result, home affordability went downward. By January 2024, rates came down from their peak established in October 2023, which assisted in buying potential buyers.

Home Prices:

From 2023 to 2024, the median sale price of homes continued to rise, reaching $362,113 in January 2025, a 4.2% increase from the previous year. This trend escalated existing affordability barriers for a vast majority of buyers to above unfortunate limits.

Australia:

Home Prices:

In Australia, statistics illustrate that home prices declined by 0.1% in December 2024 compared to the Australian home prices, which saw a monthly rise in Canada two years ago. Major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne both observe declines of 0.6% and 0.7%, respectively.

Interest Rates:

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) retained interest rates at 4.35% during 2024, which was 12 years high. Market predictions led to interest rate cuts in 2025, which could, in effect, steer home prices.

United Kingdom:

Mortgage Rates and Cash Buyers

Rising mortgage rates increased the number of cash buyers in the market, accounting for 31% of property sales in early 2024.

The increase in interest rates has led to some homebuyers opting to purchase homes in cash rather than obtain a mortgage because they don’t want to bear the costs of a loan.

Retail UpdateRETAIL/RETAIL HIGHLIGHTS

Contagion from Housing Crisis:

The retail sector in the US had also been severely impacted by the weakened housing market, which led to home durable goods sales collapsing in 2024. Concomitantly, Big Lots and Conn’s reported overstocks, which caused them to shutter more locations than they expanded in the entirety of the year, leading to the overall net store closures of about 1400.

REAL ESTATE

Property Outlook Determinants:

The uncertainties of the economic state led to subdued demand, coupled with higher financing rates, creating an imbalance. Consolidated Offices witnessed a drop in demand due to the patterns of hybrid and remote work. The sector is expected to grapple with refinancing nearly USD 570 billion worth of matured commercial real estate loans by 2025.

PROPERTY/REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT

Single Successful Candidates:

Some outliers managed to profit from market trends with great effort. For example, 30 aged rental property owners in Des Moines, Iowa, earned around 240,000 from rental properties in 2023 while fully employed in the day sector.

Regional Commentary: Shorewood in Wisconsin MSA

Property Trends:

In February 2023, Wisconsin noticed a 6 percent rise in the average housing price, reaching an estimated $265,000.

Sales have become increasing with inventories of 2.5 months worth of supply remaining. Along with this, new listings have also surged by up to 10.1%.

Real estate and business markets are ever-changing, and conditions tend to shift quickly, so to get real-time information, check in with local real estate agents or financial advisors in addition to authentic news sources.

• This discussion was modified 2 months, 3 weeks ago by  Gustan Cho.

Mortgage and Real Estate News Update for December 30th 2024

Until December 30, 2024, trends have emerged and developed in the mortgage and real estate industry as follows:

Current Rates:

• The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is around 6.85%, indicating an upward trend from 6.72%.

Federal Action:

• While the Federal Reserve has cut rates, that has not been reflected in mortgage rates.
• This
  is primarily because the Fed’s benchmark rate cuts have been negated by
  higher 10-year Treasury yields due to inflationary worries, causing
  mortgages to remain higher.

Pending Home Sales:

• The
  US saw a successful November, with purchase contracts of used homes
  rising by 2.2%, the highest level in 21 months, over November.
• This
  signaled the potential recovery of the US housing sector, as not only
  did this mark an increase compared to October, but there was a
  noticeable trend over the past four months.

Regional Variation:

• Moderation in Housing Stock has aided growth in home purchases, with YoY housing inventory rising to over 18%.
• However,
  the South and West regions saw an increase in the sales of Pending
  homes, which was contrasted with a decrease in the Northeast region.

Forecasts of the market for the year 2025

Mortgage Rates:

• As estimated, mortgage rates will stay above the 6% threshold in 2025, with chances of reaching 6.8%.
• These measures assume inflation and a rise in the national debt due to future strategies.

Prices of Homes:

• The estimates suggest that home prices will increase by approximately 3.7% by 2025.
• Such estimates gauge home prices increased by 4% in 2024 and 1.1% in 2023, suggesting appreciation for the rules set.

Construction inventory:

• The
  estimates suggest construction will rise in 2025, with an estimated
  13.8% increase in new construction and an estimated 11.7% increase in
  inventory sales.
• This expansion could provide buyers with ample options, decreasing the competition in the market.

Opinion of the Consumers:

• The sentiment surrounding the housing market is now more optimistic than ever.
• An unprecedented share of respondents think the rates will lower in the coming year.
• At the same time, an appropriate number of them think the housing market will be a good area to invest in.

We are slowly seeing some stability in the mortgage and real estate markets, with slight increases in home sales and the prices of homes, although I wouldn’t hold my breath for those rates to come down anytime soon. For mortgage seekers, and even home buyers and sellers, despite the high competition we face in the market, deep knowledge of economic indicators helps to forecast market trends that promote reliable decision-making in today’s global environment.

• This discussion was modified 2 months, 3 weeks ago by  Gustan Cho.
• This discussion was modified 2 months, 3 weeks ago by  Gustan Cho.

Breaking News from Perry, Indiana. Tyson Foods fires American workers and hires migrant workers. Recently, there have been rumors that Tyson Foods has fired American employees in Perry, Indiana, and replaced them with migrant labor. Such claims lack evidence and take a situation out of context.

Clarification of Events:

The company stated specific business reasons for the closure and encouraged affected employees to apply for other positions within Tyson Foods. Perry, Iowa Plant Closure: Tyson Foods announced in March 2024 the shutdown of its pork processing plant in Perry, Iowa, leading to the layoff of around 1,200 workers. Misinformation on Hiring Practices:

After the factory shut down, speculation went viral, alleging that Tyson would employ 52 thousand immigrants to replace those who lost their jobs. The company has repeatedly denied these claims, saying it has no plan to recruit them and that every worker must be legally authorized to work in America.

Tyson Foods’ Employment Policies:

Tyson Foods says, “We would like to make it clear once again that we only hire people with the legal right to work in this country.” The company has established strong hiring guidelines to ensure adherence to employment laws and participates in government schemes such as the IMAGE (Mutual Agreement between Government and Employees) program and E-Verify.

Tyson’s Commitment to Employing Refugees: In 2022, Tyson committed to hiring approximately 2,500 refugees over three years in partnership with Tent Partnership for Refugees.

This initiative differs from the layoffs in Perry, Iowa, as these individuals have work permits.

Current Status in Perry, Indiana:

No Reported Layoffs or Replacements: According to credible reports, Tyson Foods has not laid off any local American workers in Perry, Indiana, and replaced them with migrant laborers. However, confusion may arise based on what happened in Perry, Iowa, and misinformation afterward.

Unfounded Claims of Firing Americans and Hiring Migrants by Tyson Food Industries Inc

The company imposes strict recruitment strategies to verify the legality of each employee’s employment documents within U.S. boundaries. Instead of rumors, reliable sources should be used to provide information.

https://youtu.be/eGe5Z7aGYK4?si=zGAZKdA2HRpJEyzr

• This discussion was modified 2 months, 3 weeks ago by  Gustan Cho.

What would I need to qualify for FHA loan during bankruptcy (over 12 on time payments), no late payments on credit, etc

Comprehensive Overview of Daily National Mortgage, Real Estate, and Business News including mortgage rates, housing starts, unemployment, and interest rate forecast for Thursday January 8th 2025. As of Thursday, January 9, 2025, we will provide an overview of what has happened in the U.S. mortgage market or the real estate and business sectors. We will also share any updates concerning mortgage rates, housing starts, unemployment rates, and interest rate projections.

Mortgage Rates:

Current Trends:

• The average yield on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages has spiked to 6.93 percent, marking the fourth consecutive week of increase and hitting its highest since early July.
• This rise is closely associated with the climbing yields on 10-year Treasury bonds in the U.S., which were at 3.62% mid-September but reached a peak at 4.66% currently.
• Heightened mortgage rates and soaring home prices are increasing housing affordability pressures on potential buyers.

Housing Market

Housing Starts:

• The housing market saw a significant slowdown, as December recorded the most substantial season deceleration in almost two years.
• It took an average of 70 days for homes to sell in December, marking the slowest December period in five years.
• This trend can be mostly attributed to higher mortgage rates that discourage potential buyers from buying a home or selling their current ones.
• Also, housing inventory decreased by 8.6% in November, representing the biggest monthly decline since January 2023.

Homebuilder Sentiment:

• U.S. homebuilders’ shares have fallen due to concerns about protracted high interest rates and prospective policy changes under Trump’s administration, such as increased tariffs and mass deportations that could raise construction costs.
• Since November, the S&P500 Homebuilding Index declined by 17.3%, reaching its lowest level since July.

Employment Data

Unemployment Claims:

• The labor market has remained robust, with new jobless benefit applications falling to eight-month lows.
• Initial claims fell by 9,000 to a seasonally adjusted 211,000 for the week ending December 28.
• This indicates that layoffs are decreasing and that labor market strength is being maintained.

Interest Rate Forecast

Federal Reserve Policy:

• Financial markets are becoming more skeptical of Federal Reserve interest rate cuts in 2025.
• High inflation rates above the Fed’s 2% target and better-than-anticipated economic performance could mean the tight monetary policy can continue.
• Market sentiment shows a 15% probability of no change in rates this year, up from last month’s figure of 4%.

Economic Outlook

Growth Projections:

• The U.S. economy has shown resilience, with growth rates pegged at 2-3%.
• However, there is speculation over a possible slowdown as high interest rates affect sectors such as construction and mortgage applications.
• Yet, despite these concerns, consumer spending and investment have been largely stable.

Implications for Stakeholders

Homebuyers and Sellers:

• Elevated mortgage rates and home prices continue to challenge affordability, potentially deterring prospective buyers or influencing sellers’ decisions.
• Homeowners are advised to delay refinancing until the rates reduce, while others should focus on making home improvements that increase equity.

Investors and Businesses:

• The current economic landscape is characterized by high interest rates coupled with policy uncertainties that may impact investments, especially in the housing and construction sectors.
• Stakeholders must closely monitor policy developments and market trends to inform strategic planning.

The U.S. real estate and mortgage markets face complex terrain characterized by rising mortgage rates, cooling housing markets, robust employment figures, and an uncertain interest rate outlook. Under these constantly changing conditions, stakeholders are advised to be informed and cautious while making decisions.

Daily National U.S. Headline News including California Palisades Wildfires, Politics, Economy, for Thursday January 9th 2025. Thursday, January 9, 2025, U.S. national news headlines provided by an overview and summary of the daily. The bullet points include updates on the California Palisades wildfires, political developments, and economic news.

California Procrastinations Wildfires

• The wildfires in California’s Palisades are still burning, and little or no containment effort is being made.
• Firefighters have grappled with tough conditions, including strong winds and dry weather.

Evacuations:

• Flames are threatening thousands of homes and infrastructure, leading to the evacuation of inhabitants.
• Emergency shelters for displaced people have been established.

State Response:

• Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency to fight these fires, ensuring more support.
• However, questions persist concerning the state’s readiness and response to the wildfire crisis.

Political Development

Congressional Actions:

• Congress is getting ready to discuss budget allocations for disaster relief, including funding for wildfire recovery efforts in California.
• Lawmakers are being pushed to hasten aid delivery.

2024 Presidential Campaign:

• Candidates are already preparing for upcoming primaries, making politics hotly contested.
• The two most important issues revolve around climate change, disaster preparedness, and increasingly extreme weather patterns, which candidates greatly consider in their strategies.

Economic News

Market Performance:

• The stock market showed ups and downs due to mixed economic data as investors reacted.
• Inflation and interest rate concerns continue to influence the sentiment of the market.

Consumer Confidence:

• Recent reports have attributed a slight fall in consumer confidence to the high cost of living and economic uncertainty.
• Analysts are watching to see if such a trend will affect consumer spending over the next few months.

Federal Reserve Outlook:

• The Federal Reserve’s latest statements reveal that inflation is still a concern and could lead to changes in monetary policy.
• Economic indicators will determine whether or not interest rates will change.

By January 9, 2025, California Palisades wildfires remain a major national issue, prompting state and federal responses for relief efforts and recovery plans. As political discussions surrounding disaster funding and the imminent presidential campaign intensify, economic indicators indicate consumers’ moods are cautious towards their wallets. At the same time, the markets seem wary with regard to the implications of these issues. The interplay between these problems continues to pose dilemmas throughout America’s journey from crises recently experienced to future uncertainties ahead.

Daily Mortgage and Real Estate News for Wednesday, January 8th 2025:

By January 8, 2025, there are outstanding changes in the United States mortgage, real estate, and business sectors:

Updating about Mortgage Rates:

Current Rates:

• The average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage is approximately 6.91%, marking the highest rate since July 2024.

Projections:

• Fixed mortgage rates will not fall until next year, as forecasted by analysts, averaging around 6.4% for 2025.
• This is slightly lower than the annual average of 6.7% last year but still above that historic average between this year and the past six years (2013-2019), which was less than or equal to 4 percent.

Housing Market Trends:

Home Prices:

• Nationally, home prices are projected to rise 3.7% in 2025, followed by 4% in 2024 and 1.1% in 2023.
• This trend will continue due to limited housing inventory and sustained demand.

Sales Activity:

• Existing home sales are expected to increase by about a half percentage point, or nearly one hundred thousand homes, to as many as four million units.
• This is far below the historical annual mean level within our analysis period – eight years (this decade).
• Besides, the housing supply may improve compared with last year’s data, including more new house constructions anticipated to total over a million units.”

Regional Insights:

Hudson Valley, New York:

• A luxurious manor in Hyde Park, initially valued at $45 million in 2021, has been resubmitted for sale at $11.25 million after three years of futile attempts to sell it.
• The considerable price reduction highlights the difficulty encountered in the upper-end real estate industry.

Banking and Financial Services:

TSB Bank Initiative:

• TSB has launched a new 5&5 mortgage scheme that gives tenants a 5% reduction on their first home, provided they put down a minimum 5% deposit.
• This initiative is intended to help renters buy the homes they are already living in, remove any complexities landlords could encounter while selling them off, and offer affordable housing alternatives as property prices rise.

Economic Indicators:

Stock Market Movements:

• On January 8, 2025, the U.S. stock futures are moving downward following a tech sell-off, with NASDAQ, S&P 500, and Dow Jones trending slightly lower.
• Hence, markets and federal agencies will be closed tomorrow for the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter.
• Moderna stock is climbing on expectations of a bird-flu vaccine after the first U.S. death from the disease was reported.
• Bitcoin and crypto stocks are falling as a strong labor report diminishes hopes of Federal Reserve rate cuts.
• Palantir Technologies’ shares continue to decrease because analysts are worried about its high valuation despite its good performance in 2024.

Challenges in Homeownership:

Affordability Issues:

• A twenty-six-year-old Perth resident earning $80,000 per annum experienced difficulty making his loan repayments when he initially could afford them easily.
• When his fixed-rate time lapsed, he had to tune into repayment that became highly increased—having to sell personal things to ensure payment was made regularly.
• This shows how many property owners feel financial pressures due to rising costs plus interest rates.

Market Outlook:

The mortgage and real estate market is characterized by higher mortgage rates, increasing home prices, and a greater focus on affordability and economic indicators. Prospective buyers and sellers should follow these trends to make wise decisions.

Summary of National Headline News Updated of January 3rd, January 4th, January 5th, and January 6th 2025, including Weekend News Update of January 4th and 5th 2025:

January 3, 2025

On January 3, the 119th U.S. Congress sat in session for the first time. Vice President Kamala Harris swore in the senators, and Mike Johnson was re-elected as Speaker of the House.

Janet Yellen To Be Nominated as U.S. Treasury Secretary:

• Joe Biden’s administration is set to nominate Janet Yellen as Treasury Secretary.
• Joe Biden blocks Nippon Steel’s $7 billion acquisition of U.S. Steel over national security concerns.
• According to Fox News on Saturday, a newly released report shows that the president has ordered the government to buy less from China and other foreign sources over concerns about supply chain vulnerability.

Surgeon General Calls For Cancer Warnings On Alcohol Bottles:

• Surgeon General Vivek Murthy suggests that alcohol bottles be marked with cancer warnings.
• This is because there is a clear link between alcohol consumption and cancer risk.

SpaceX launches United Arab Emirates Communication Satellite Thuraya 4-NGS:

According to ABC News, SpaceX launched its communications satellite Thuraya 4-NGS for the United Arab Emirates on Friday via a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

January 4, 2025

Terrorism in New Orleans? So far, fourteen people have died after a terrorist attack took place on New Year’s Day. Homemade bombs filled with special explosives were used by the attacker, indicating the involvement of high-level terrorist training and possible connections with international terrorist organizations.

Winter Storm Blair Disrupts Central U.S.: According to NBC News, Winter Storm Blair caused major disruption across central the USA last Tuesday, resulting in four deaths.

Kansas City, Missouri, and Louisville, Kentucky, were particularly affected by heavy snowfall, with the latter receiving its heaviest snowfall in a quarter of a century. For instance, around 1,900 flights were canceled, and more than 254,000 utility customers lost power.

January 5th, 2025

Congestion Pricing New York City:

New York City was the first city in the United States to introduce congestion pricing for vehicles below 60th Street into Lower Manhattan and Midtown. This initiative aims to reduce traffic jams and generate revenue for public transportation improvements.

U.S. Provides Arms to Israel: The U.S. State Department informed Congress about an intended $8 billion weapons deal with Israel that includes air-to-air missiles, Hellfire missiles, artillery shells, and other ammunition, thereby enhancing their strategic alliance between the two nations.

January 6th, 2025

Election Results Certified By Congress: On January 6, amidst heightened security measures and a January 6 m, Congress met to confirm Donald Trump’s presidential victory earlier this year. Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the session, announcing election results formally without any altercation like last year’s event on January 6.

Shore Drilling:

In one of his final acts as President, Joe Biden banned new oil and natural gas drilling across most of America’s coastline to accomplish environmental objectives and mitigate climate change effects.

These events underscored important political shifts alongside environmental conservation and safety challenges experienced within the U.S. during the first week of January 2025.

What is homeowners insurance? What does homeowners insurance cover? I heard Brent Norkus of Goosehead Insurance is GCA Mortgage Group’s preferred homeowners referred insurance agent. Can Brent Norkus answer the general concept of homeowners insurance to first-time homebuyers?

Comprehensive Daily Headline News for Tuesday, January 7th, 2025, which includes the economy, inflation, unemployment, bankruptcy, foreclosure, politics, stocks and bonds, corruption, and factors affecting Americans.

The United States is experiencing significant developments across various sectors as of January 7, 2025.

Economy and Inflation

Economic Growth:

• Projections are that the US economy will grow by about 2.2%- 2.5% in 2025 due to full employment and price stability.

Inflation:

• Personal consumption expenditures (PCE) rose by 6.4% in 2023, with Florida leading at a growth rate of up to 8.1% and Iowa at a low pace of only 4.7%.

Bureau of Economic Analysis

Unemployment and Job Market:

Job Openings:

• In November 2024, there were 8.1 million job openings, up from the forecasted 7.7 million.

Services Sector:

• The ISM’s non-manufacturing index for December rose higher than predicted, indicating strong service sector activity.

Stock Market and Bonds

Treasury Yields:

• With strong economic data, US Treasury yields have hit an eight-month high, with the government bond yield on a ten-year note reaching around 4.7%.

Stock Market:

• Positive economic data pushed the S&P 500 and NASDAQ downwards on concerns that the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policies could be affected.

Politics

Presidential Election:

• On January 6, 2025, Congress confirmed Donald Trump’s re-election as President during the recent presidential contest held in 2019, marking his return to the White House.

Debt Ceiling Concerns:

• According to Fitch Ratings, the debate on the US debt ceiling is not likely to be resolved promptly, even though Republicans control the government due to fights over spending within the party.

Corruption and Legal Matters

Trump’s Legal Challenges:

• Jack Smith, a special counsel, reports on his criminal cases against Donald Trump to Merrick Garland, an attorney general.
• Trump’s legal team wants this report kept confidential and has called it an “unlawful political stunt.”

Factors Affecting Americans

Climate Risk Considerations:

• Home buyers increasingly turn to climate risk assessments in evaluating properties, such as platforms like Zillow, that offer climate risk scores indicating potential damage from flooding, fires, and winds for the next 30 years.

In conclusion, the US negotiates a tricky terrain with strong economic indicators, political turnovers, and emerging issues in climatic risks of fiscal policies.

Comprehensive Daily and Weekend Mortgage and Real Estate News Updated from January 3rd through Monday, January 6th, 2025:

January 6, 2025, saw certain patterns and predictions in the mortgage and real estate markets, as stated below:

January 3, 2025

Mortgage Rates Trend:

Mortgage rates slightly increased, with the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage increasing to 6.75%. According to analysts, this is because of stronger-than-expected job growth.

Housing Market Update:

Despite higher interest rates, the National Association of Realtors reported a modest increase in home sales in December, suggesting resilience in the housing market.

January 4, 2025

Fed Meeting Insights:

Following the latest Federal Reserve meeting, officials indicated they may consider pausing further interest rate hikes. Consequently, mortgage rates stabilized for some time after this announcement.

Following the latest Federal Reserve meeting, officials indicated they may consider pausing further interest rate hikes. As a result, mortgage rates stabilized for a period after this announcement.

Reports indicate that institutional investors are increasingly targeting single-family rental properties due to a lack of affordable homes for potential buyers.

January 5th 2025

Real Estate Investment Trends:

Reports show that institutional investors are increasingly targeting single-family rental properties as there is a lack of affordable homes for potential buyers.

Homebuilder Confidence:

The Home Builders Association reported a slight increase in builder confidence, with new construction expected to begin soon due to a backlog of permits.

Foreclosure Rates

Data revealed that foreclosure rates have declined compared to the previous year, suggesting that homeowners are managing their mortgages better despite economic pressures.

January 6, 2025

Mortgage rates have slightly increased, with the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rising to 6.75%. Analysts attribute this rise to stronger-than-expected job growth.

Despite the higher interest rates, the National Association of Realtors reported a modest increase in home sales for December, suggesting resilience in the housing market.

**Weekend Market Insights:**

Analysts noted that attendance at open houses was robust over the weekend, compared to previous weekends, indicating that home buyers are adapting to existing mortgage rates.

**Regulatory Changes:**

New rules proposed for a more transparent mortgage lending process could significantly impact both lenders and borrowers.

Summary

Although interest rates are rising, the mortgage and real estate markets are showing resilience. Various indicators suggest steady activity and interest from both home buyers and investors. Key trends include slowly increasing mortgage rates, a slight uptick in home sales, and stable new construction anticipated for this year. Additionally, upcoming regulatory changes may reshape the landscape in the months ahead.

For current updates, it is recommended to consult reliable financial news sources and regular real estate market reports.025

Weekend Market Insights

Analysts noted that open house attendance was robust during the weekend compared to previous weekends, meaning home buyers were adjusting themselves to the existing mortgage rates.

Regulatory Changes

New rules proposed for a more transparent mortgage lending process would greatly impact lenders and borrowers.

Summary

Even though interest rates were rising in the economy, Mortgage and Real estate markets showed some resilience, with different indicators pointing to steady activities and interests from both home buyers and investors. Main trends include slowly increasing mortgage rates, house sales picking up slightly, and new construction expected to remain stable this year. Additionally, regulatory changes could shape the landscape in the coming months.

For current updates, reliable financial news sources and regular real estate market reports are recommended.

• This discussion was modified 2 months, 3 weeks ago by  Gustan Cho.
• This discussion was modified 2 months, 3 weeks ago by  Gustan Cho.

The City of Chicago has a major budget deficit. Chicago is outspending Los Angeles, New York, and other major big cities

What Chicago needs is an office of government efficiency. Get rid of Incompetent Mayor Brandon Johnson and other leaders without a clue

https://youtu.be/zVJli70qr7Y?si=kPQ9oqtxhT7JqsqH

What can you do if my one-year-old German Shepherd dog has floppy ears? Is there surgery, drugs, tape, to make the ears stand up?

Headline News For Monday December 30th 2024

On December 30, of the year 2024, a variety of noteworthy changes have taken place within the spheres of business and politics:

Business

Wall Street Performance:

• The stock markets of the United States fell on December 30, with all three benchmarks completing lower in value than the previous day.
• The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped by 418.48 points. The S&P 500 was down 63.90.
• The Nasdaq Composite was down 235.25 points.
• The decline is concerning.
• However, when viewed annually, the performance remains respectable, with the Nasdaq around 30%, the S&P 500 over 24%, and the Dow rising slightly over 13%.

Rising Treasury Yields

Yields on the Treasury have become a problem in this longer-term bull market. According to recent reports, the current 10-year treasury yield has been at its highest for the past seven months. There are concerns about how that might impact the equity markets. A hint that yield than usual may drive the stocks ward over time.

Trump Administration’s Impact on Wall Street

To no one’s surprise, the trump presidency is changing the policies meant to govern Wall Street and is bound to have a larger impact. Joe Biden’s administration is hoping to achieve a plethora of changes. The anticipated changes would make it easier for banks to abide by capital requirements, enable mergers and acquisitions, and support the cryptocurrency and fintech sectors. The policy shift will likely be business-oriented, and regulators will be less ruled out.

Politics

US Avails from Government Shutdown:

• The likelihood of a government shutdown was narrowly prevented when Congress approved an extension of current expenditure.
• This bipartisan approach extends the resolution of continuing to March 14, 2025.
• It has also provided for disaster management and extensions of other programs.
• Several conservative groups opposed the proposal, but it was eventually approved, averting a shutdown.

International Trade Worries

Donald Trump’s proposals regarding tariffs and taxes on imports from Mexico, Canada, China, et al. are generating fears of potentially adverse effects on the economy worldwide during the decade. In this way, the further increase of prices combined with trade restrictions and other economic factors could hamper stability in the international economy.

Economic activities of China

In December, the Chinese economy was expected to grow slower but more stable, as the manufacturing industry anticipates modest growth for the third month. However, a set of US tariffs could disturb this momentum.

Notable Passings

Commemoration of United States President Jimmy Carter:

The 100-year-old Jimmy Carter, president between 1977 and 1981, was also active in humanitarian services after his presidency through involvement in Habitat for Humanity construction and solving international conflict, earning him a Nobel Peace Prize.

Sports

Jayden Daniels Receives Great Training From Commanders Coaches:

• Interestingly, This story starts with Jayden Daniels, the Commander’s first drafted player.
• However, this decision still left me curious.
• Daniels made a remarkable contribution to the team’s performance, helping them secure a record of 11 wins and five losses. This was achieved through a team effort.
• Furthermore, under the right guidance from the Kansas State Line Coach (Daniel’s “country boy attitude” was so amusing.
• Imagine a dash of Denver and Daniels in cowboy boots). He took the field and delivered the right punches.

Oh, the beauty of digital convergence. At the end of the year, these events perfectly illustrate the fluidity of the modern business and political environment.

https://ai.invideo.io/workspace/9b091797-32ce-4ae8-9bbc-0f40171ab828/v30-copilot/125702f1-fb0f-4a23-9c6c-f774446503ca

• This discussion was modified 3 months ago by  Gustan Cho.

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If you know about tax evasion, you can turn that information into cash by becoming a whistleblower for the IRS. They reward informants with 15% to 30% of the money recovered from enforcement actions, which can add up to thousands or even millions. While you might face risks like job loss or social backlash, protections exist under the Whistleblower Protection Act. Just remember, your information needs to be credible. By stepping forward, you not only stand to gain financially but also help uphold ethical standards in our financial system. There’s much more to consider on this path.

Key Takeaways

• Confidential informants can receive financial rewards from the IRS for reporting tax evasion, ranging from 15% to 30% of collected proceeds.
• The IRS reviews submitted information for credibility, which can lead to significant payouts based on the size of the case.
• Whistleblowers may face risks such as retaliation or emotional distress, despite legal protections like the Whistleblower Protection Act.
• Ethical considerations are important; motivations for reporting should be transparent to ensure integrity in the whistleblowing process.
• Successful whistleblowing can inspire organizational change, enhancing accountability and compliance within the IRS and related entities.

Understanding Whistleblowing Dynamics

Whistleblowing plays a crucial role in holding organizations accountable for unethical practices. When you decide to speak up, you’re often risking your job, relationships, and sometimes even your safety. Understanding the dynamics of whistleblowing helps you navigate this complex landscape.

You’ll recognize that whistleblowing isn’t just about reporting wrongdoing; it’s also about understanding the environment in which you’re operating. You need to consider the culture of the organization. If it encourages transparency and integrity, your decision to blow the whistle might be supported. However, in a toxic environment, the repercussions could be severe.

You should also be aware of the legal protections available to you. Laws like the Whistleblower Protection Act can shield you from retaliation, but they don’t always guarantee safety.

Additionally, think about the impact your actions could have. By exposing unethical practices, you mightn’t only protect others but also inspire change within the organization.

Ultimately, whistleblowing is a courageous act that requires careful consideration, a solid understanding of your rights, and a commitment to ethical standards. Your choice could make a significant difference, both for yourself and for the larger community.

Financial Rewards for Informants

When considering the implications of reporting unethical behavior, it’s important to recognize that financial incentives can play a significant role for informants. The IRS offers substantial monetary rewards for those who provide valuable information about tax evasion or fraud.

If you’ve got inside knowledge on someone dodging taxes, your tip could lead to a substantial payout. Under the IRS Whistleblower Program, you might receive between 15% to 30% of the collected proceeds from an enforcement action. That could translate to thousands, or even millions, depending on the case’s size.

This financial incentive can motivate individuals to step forward, as the potential reward often outweighs the risks. You might wonder how this process works. After you submit your information, the IRS reviews it and determines whether it’s credible and actionable.

If they successfully collect penalties or taxes based on your tip, you’ll receive your reward. However, it’s crucial to understand that the process can be lengthy and may require patience. Still, the prospect of earning money while doing the right thing can be a compelling reason for many to become informants.

Ethical Considerations in Reporting

Many individuals face complex ethical dilemmas when considering whether to report misconduct. You might find yourself weighing the potential benefits against the moral implications of your actions. On one hand, reporting could lead to significant financial rewards and help maintain integrity within the system. On the other hand, you may worry about the consequences for those involved, including the impact on their lives and careers.

Motivations for reporting to uphold justice, or are you primarily motivated by the financial incentive? Transparency in your intentions can help clarify the ethical landscape.

Additionally, think about the accuracy of the information you possess. False or exaggerated claims can have severe repercussions for everyone involved, including yourself.

Moreover, consider the potential fallout from your actions. Whistleblowers often face retaliation, social ostracism, and emotional distress. Weighing these risks against the potential benefits is vital.

Ultimately, you need to navigate these ethical waters carefully, ensuring that your decision aligns with your values and the greater good. Reporting misconduct can be righteous, but it’s essential to approach it thoughtfully and ethically.

Conclusion

In the world of whistleblowing, you’ve got the chance to make a difference while potentially earning a financial reward. By stepping forward as a confidential informant, you not only help the IRS tackle tax evasion but also secure your own financial future. However, weighing the ethical implications of your actions and Ultimately you can choose to be a force for good, balancing the pursuit of justice with the pursuit of profit.

When we speak to taxpayers who have unfortunately fallen into the IRS Collection Division and believe their hardship can be settled with a hardship letter and the IRS just goes away unfortunately that’s not how it works. These individuals are confronted with the prospect of dealing with federal tax issues imposed by the (IRS) and not having a clear understanding of what the rules are and what’s available to the taxpayer.

If you find yourself dealing with any tax-related issues in Orlando, Florida or anywhere in the Central Florida or for that matter anywhere in the USA we are a phone call away 407-531-8705

https://calendly.com/taxdebtreliefgroup/tax-debt-consultation

If you or someone you know has IRS or State Tax issues, Business or Personal or has not filed a tax return for years down load my free book this is some info that can help.

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Peter Kici EA

I just have a question ,I was wondering if my husband was able to qualify for a fha mortgage in the future. He makes 26-27 yearly and has bad credit we been working on his credit. his credit right now is experi FICO 628 ,679 equifax ,675 trans. We haven’t miss any payment in the past 2 years and 3 months but he does have 2 charge offs that are 2 years old and 2 medical collections

Are There Any VA Lenders In Chicago With No VA Lender Overlays?

Many business analysts and experts are forecasting mortgage rates will drop under 4% in 2024.This forecast is extremely aggressive and a lot of these economists are putting their names behind their mortgage rates forecast. Here is an article about a mortgage and housing economist aggressive statement on the conviction he has on his under 3% mortgage rate forecast for 2024.

https://www.businessinsider.com/fed-rate-cut-outlook-economy-recession-forecast-2024-inflation-ubs-2023-12

businessinsider.com

The Fed will lower interest rates under 3% as a mild recession leads to a 'soggy 2024,' UBS chief economist says

"We think we're going to end up with a relatively soggy 2024 when we look back at the end of next year."

Most people who were renters and are becoming first time homebuyers dream of buying their very first dog. One of the questions most homebuyers have is what is the smartest dog breed. What is the smartest dog breed and dog breed that are easiest to train for first-time homebuyers.

Here is a link about an economist aggressively forecasting mortgage rates will drop under 4% in 2024. Could 2024 be a bull market for loan officers? Out of 150,000 loan officers, close to 100,000 either left the mortgage industry completely, retired early, or let their NMLS licenses expire and are in a different industry or thinking about going into a different industry. Hundreds if not thousands of mortgage companies, whether they are mortgage bankers, correspondent lenders, or mortgage brokers went out of business in 2023

https://youtu.be/aWePq5–Seg?si=L2Q_8ad8MFchhyuK

Mortgage Rates forecasted to plummet under 3% according to Business Insider Economis

https://www.businessinsider.com/fed-rate-cut-outlook-economy-recession-forecast-2024-inflation-ubs-2023-12

businessinsider.com

The Fed will lower interest rates under 3% as a mild recession leads to a 'soggy 2024,' UBS chief economist says

"We think we're going to end up with a relatively soggy 2024 when we look back at the end of next year."

The mortgage and real estate markets have fluctuated due to inflation, job statistics, foreclosure, and home prices, all notable developments considering the rising mortgage rates. Here’s the recent trend. The article will also provide information on the ever-changing but somehow related business economics.

Mortgage Rates

30-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgages:

• According to the most current statistics.
• The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage increased to 6.85%, which has been the highest recorded since mid-July.
• The percentage was 6.72% last week, compared to 6.61% recorded a year ago.
• This is a clear sign of raised bond yields banks use to sell home loans.

15-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgages:

• Closed at 6%, up from 5.92% recorded the previous week.

Employment and Job Losses

In considering the labor force, indicators highlight its potential decay due to students’ inability to find summer jobs, resulting in aggravated unemployment reaching 6.4%.

Inflation

The growing economic debate on whether federal banks should pay particular regard to inflation is apparent, especially considering the recent US statistics indicating inflation is growing to 3.2% annually.

It is projected to keep increasing, impacting mortgage rates and the overall economic spectrum.

Foreclosure Rates

There are no seasonal statistics or trends regarding foreclosures at present. However, the growing interest and inflationary rates can complementarily lead to further foreclosure activity, as people who need to deal with further economic stresses alongside rising home loan interest rates may find themselves unable to cope and eventually file for bankruptcy.

Home Prices

Despite the hike in mortgage rates, home prices remained steady. Due to high demand and low housing inventory, the price of homes in the United States is predicted to increase by 5% this year, higher than the previous prediction of 1.9%.

In the UK, it is estimated that house prices will increase by 1.9%, bringing the average value of a house to £267,500. The increase in market activity is expected to impact the housing market positively.

Factors Influencing the Market

Bond Yields Increased bond yields are the reason mortgage rates are increasing. This affects the low number of homebuyers.

Federal Reserve Policies Other policies cut rates to improve affordability, but in contrast, the rate cuts resulted in increased mortgage rates. This is because the 10-year Treasury bonds have increased yields, which wreaked havoc on mortgage rates.

Housing Inventory

Even with the increased mortgage rates, there is a limited number of houses, which keeps the prices of the homes steady. Owners with low mortgage rates are reluctant to sell their houses, contributing to the low supply.

Implications for Homebuyers and Homeowners

Affordability Challenges Due to the increased price of homes and mortgage rates, the supply of houses has greatly diminished, which has resulted in many unfavorable implications, such as a decrease in mortgage applications.

Increased Costs

The property tax rate has historically been low, around 32% in recent years. Still, as of 2014, mortgage rates and insurance expenses have virtually skyrocketed.

The increased mortgage rates, inflation, and economic instability make it almost impossible for potential buyers and homeowners to afford their properties. With the market as fuzzy as it is, it’s worth getting advice from an expert and staying updated with the latest economic information.

A vivid overview of the country, its businesses, and its economy, as a whole, over the period from December 23 to 28 has been presented below:

American News

Government Shutdown Avert:

• The risk of the US government shutting down was averted on the 21st day of the 12th month of the year 2024.
• This was possible because the representatives had signed a spending amendment bill that Biden later enacted.
• As I have stated above, the US was on the brink of a government shutdown as there was a lot of discord over the signing of the bipartisan bill and the subsequent amendments.
• The bill was not signed, while the spending amendment was enacted to prevent the US from shutting down.

Biden’s Death Sentence Commutes

On December 23, 2024, President Joe Biden commuted the death sentences of 37 federal inmates. The main goal behind this act was to reflect the current president’s stance on capital punishment in the US and widen the scope of justice in the legal system.

American Airlines Flight Delays

On September 24, 2024, Amer American faced a technical issue that delayed over 900 flights. The issues were resolved later that day, but the travel season was massively disrupted due to the holiday season, as flights were grounded nationwide.

Business News

Retail Store Closures:

• 2024 proved to be the year when America officially disintegrated into a retail apocalypse, as it saw the closure of hundreds, if not thousands, of retail stores and chains.
• Estimates suggest that in November, about 7,100 stores in the US closed, a considerable 69% jump from the previous year.
• Some notable closed stores included Family Dollar, CVS Health, Big Lots, and Walgreens, which closed 677, 586, 580, and 259 stores, respectively.
• Big Lots closed all 963 remaining stores because the deal between them and Nexus Capital Management LP did not go through.
• Furthermore, CVS and Walgreens have also shut down multiple stores and are planning to expand the closures.
• The stock market’s performance was unsatisfactory for the S&P 500, which lost 1.1% on Friday, resulting in a loss of yet another 1% for the month.
• The index rose 25% throughout the year, with a 5.7% increase in November.
• The tech sector performed extremely well, especially the Magnificent Seven, which includes Apple, Tesla, Alphabet, Amazon, and Nvidia.
• Apple’s valuation reached close to $4 trillion.
• Strong software and AI performers, including Palantir Technologies and AppLovin, brought growth stocks to the forefront of 2024.
• Sezzle topped the performer’s list after its stocks rose beyond 1000% because of its rising revenue.

Broader stock market leadership, compared to 2023, was observed, with several industry groups performing well.

Economic News

Consumer Confidence Data:

• Compared to November, the American consumer confidence level has decreased with a ratio of 81.1, where 80 would be recession indicative.
• This depicts a recessionary trend due to the steep decline in short-term expectations of over a dozen points in income, business, and the upcoming job market.
• The Conference Board’s consumer confidence index dropped to 104.7 from 112.8 beating analysts expectations for 113.8.
• However, despite consumer confidence declining over the three months, retail store sales increased by 0.7%, indicating that consumers could still be positive for the economy.

US Productivity Improvement

The United States seemsseemsis following on the edge of potential productivity improvement, similar to the internet boom in the mid-1990s. Worker productivity lately has started showing positive growth trends and has recorded over 2% growth. Further, investments in labor-saving technologies and post-COVID better job-role matches also contribute to the growth. Economists have predicted further advances in these developments, especially in AI, improving productivity growth in the 1990s era from 2.5% to 3%. This increase in productivity is essential for the country in managing its debt and economic well-being.

US Economic Policy Forecast

If the US Republican party wins the 2024 elections, as they appear to do, the economic outlook will change noticeably.

Donald Trump, the president-elect, has plans to grow the American economy through policies such as lowering taxes, tightening immigration laws, raising tariffs, and loosening regulations. Thanks to the Republican majority in Congress and in the Senate, there will be very few problems implementing these policies. It is a crucial juncture to predict since the facets of the policies after the election can vary. However, the economy will be impacted greatly by the elections.