GCA Forums News: National Headline Overview – Wednesday 23 April, 2025

Stock Market Surge: Dow Jones and Beyond

On 23 April 2025, the stock market’s ‘cheer’ was captured by the Dow Jones, which had grown more than 600 points, and other markets, including the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq, followed suit. With strapping corporate earnings, boosted consumer trust, and steady monetary policies, this rise was expected. Gold valued at 2,700 dollars per ounce and silver had a 1.2% boost during industrial demand, although the precious metals market’s results were mixed. There was a slight growth of 4.25% with the U.S Treasury yield debt ten-year note, hinting that the economy will grow, but inflation would be an issue.

As mentioned, the stock market’s lifting indicators depended on the energy, tech, and consumer discretionary industries. The strong focus on X was also due to factors relating to the rise of deregulated spending policies favored by investors and anticipated by the Trump administration. However, some experts warn that the coming months will be volatile due to the Federal Reserve’s policies and other countries’ trade relations.

Trump vs. Powell: Interest Rates Drama

The drama around interest rates is heating up as President Trump lashes out at Jerome Powell for not cutting rates quickly enough. Trump believes real estate and manufacturing are particularly suffering due to increased rates. On his part, Powell has been steadfast about the Fed’s data-centric methodology, continuously citing inflation that sits above the targeted figure of 2% as cautionary fuel. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for March 2025 shows the inflation rate year-on-year at 3.1%, a minor reduction compared to February. GDP growth predictions for Quarter 1 in 2025 are expected to be 2.8%, suggesting steady growth without extreme overheating or surpassing defined thresholds.

With Trump’s alleged Fed termination rumors, speculation surrounding Powell’s job security seems rampant on X, without more grounded evidence. These claims are utterly false and significantly overblown. Dismantling the Federal Reserve is far more complicated than politicians chopping off heads and would require a full vote of Congress. The Fed remains independent as to when and how it governs; this freedom grants Powell the freedom to exercise his role as chair until 2026. No credible narratives suggest fixed plans to remove Powell, further cementing the belief that such arguments stem from blame-shaming, politically charged rationale.

Real Estate and Housing: Overview

The mixed state of the economy indicates some sectors are recovering while others are still struggling. Average mortgage rates decreased from 7.1% to 6.9% in April 2025 but remain nearly untenable. The housing market is characterized by insufficient supply due to urban demand, which allows sellers to increase inventory prices. The national home inventory value is $425,000, indicating a 4% increase from the previous year. A reluctance to sell, among homeowners, due to the prevailing interest rates further restricts the housing market, and combined with lagging construction due to exorbitant material costs, low market construction keeps the trend unbending.

Office spaces are struggling due to work-from-home policies, while commercial real estate in the retail and industrial sectors is paying off. Thanks to private equity and institutional investors, business credit has greatly increased for multi-family and logistics projects. Smaller real estate developers are struggling to secure adequate financing, as lenders have adopted a more conservative stance in the current economic climate.

Business and Economy: Progressing With Uncertainty Floating Around

The economy in the United States is strong, with unemployment steady at 3.8%, which is near historic lows. With his deregulation agenda, proposed tax cuts increase confidence for businesses and lending. Trump greatly boosts confidence. Uncertainty looms around his potential tariff plans, theorized to be between 10 and 20 percent on imports, their impacts on swift consumer prices, and heightened supply chain disruption concerns. Profits in manufacturing and retail are robust, but small businesses are wary because of borrowing costs and uncertainty around tariffs.

A sense of balanced optimism exists regarding the lending markets for commercial and residential mortgages. There are gaps that non-bank institutions and private lenders are willing to fill, particularly concerning mid-sized projects; however, their high interest rates limit overall loan growth. Strictly controlled standards combined with eased restrictions lead to a balance in heavily sought-after growth. The strongest commercial lending resides within the industrial and healthcare sectors, while affordability issues constrain residential lending.

Automotive Markets: Stable Requirements, Evolving Demands

The automotive industry is witnessing steady demand in all areas. Passenger car sales increased by 3% yearly, fueled by the wider acceptance of hybrid and electric vehicles. SUVs and trucks remain dominant due to the construction and energy sectors, with pickup truck sales growing by 5%. Exotic car markets are thriving, as luxury brands such as Ferrari and Lamborghini reported having more orders than ever. Motorcycle sales have stagnated, with electric model growth counterbalanced by reduced demand for traditional bikes. Commercial vehicles and fleet sales, especially for logistics and delivery businesses due to the expansion of e-commerce, remain strong.

Supply chain restrictions have improved; however, increased production costs and possible taxes on imported parts could increase price pressure. While customers still have some reservations due to the charging network’s limitations and high initial costs, automakers are still vigorously investing in EV infrastructure.

Pam Bondi and the Department of Government Efficiency: Criticism Grows

U.S. Attorney Pam Bondi is under fire from certain Republican and Trump supporter factions for not doing anything on fraud cases as well as alleged “deep state” crimes, including those relating to the Russian collusion narrative. Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy’s Government Efficiency Department (DOGE) has uncovered waste and possible fraud within federal programs, but no major prosecutorial action has been taken. Bondi’s media appearances on FOX News add to the narrative that she cares more about the spotlight than taking legal action.

On the other hand, prosecuting fraud cases of great complexity may require time-consuming procedures like pre-trial investigations and filing collusion with evidence, which might explain the delays. Public claims of deep state crimes or fraud related to Russian collusion are pervasive but without supporting evidence, and so are the claims of DOGE. Bondi seems to maintain her position, but her critics could advance if actionable results are not delivered in the future. There’s no sign that she’s “on the way out,” but her frustration is visible on X.

Sanctuary Cities: Shedding Light on Illinois and Chicago

The sanctuary city policies remain unresolved conflicts with Chicago residents under Mayor Brandon Johnson and the state of Illinois under Governor JB Pritzker. Chicago is fighting with the increasing number of migrants continuously flowing into the city. This influx further stretches the limits of city resources. It intensifies debate over the city’s sanctuary status. Johnson has defended its policies, claiming the city must “stay true” to its moral obligations. All this while enduring criticisms of unfunded budgets and public safety. Conversely, Pritzker is tussling with Trump administration officials over federally mandated immigration control, demanding states’ rights.

Polares’ views are vividly highlighted by trending X posts, with some users praising the city’s approach and others bashing it as utterly nonviable. No major policy changes are said to have been instituted, but the federal mandate on sanctuary jurisdictions will likely increase control under Trump’s immigration policies.

A dynamic landscape reflected in the April 23, 2025, news cycle reveals that markets remain upbeat due to economic activity, but tensions regarding the monetary policy and trade are dangerously close. Real estate and automotive industries show strength even as high rates and tariffs pose obvious risks. With Bondi’s position and DOGE’s activities receiving scrutiny, political commentary advanced faster than legal action. Sanctuary cities’ conflict puts forth hotter issues of the country’s immigration policies. The GCA Forums News team will keep tracking this angle to inform our viewers, members, and sponsors on critical issues.

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

GCA Forums News — Business & Economic Nationwide Update For Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Real Estate & Mortgage Market

Mortgage Rates & Lending Trends

High inflation has kept mortgage rates elevated, with 30-year fixed mortgages averaging 6.91%—an increase of 27 basis points from last week. Refinancing mortgages remain high, with 30-year fixed loans averaging 7.00%. These elevated rates are influenced by inflationary pressures alongside uncertainties from recently implemented tariff policies.

Housing Market Volatility

Reduced inventory and increased mortgage rates have contributed to housing market volatility. Although some lower tariffs brought forward their purchases, overall buyer demand continues to decline. Licensed mortgage professionals maintain their numbers as renewal rates are similar to 2024.

Economy & Federal Reserve

Economic Indicators

The latest indicators show that the US economy is showing signs of slowing. For instance, the Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow model forecasted a -2.2% growth rate for Q1 2024.

Employment figures remain relatively stable as the unemployment rate holds at 4%. However, inflationary tariff policies continue to put pressure on the economy.

Federal Reserve & Jerome Powell

Paul Powell, Chair of the Fed Reserve, continues to address economic concerns caused by tariff uncertainty. Inflation targets are in place to provide balance towards the avoidance of excessive growth in the economy.

There are no confirmed claims that President Trump is attempting to sue Powell or remove him from the Federal Reserve Board, and such claims seem without basis.

Financial Markets

Stock Market Performance

Volatility continues to hit US stock markets. The Dow Jones Industrial Average futures are down 54 points, and the Nasdaq futures have dropped 270 points due to newly imposed export restrictions on semiconductor companies.

Treasury Yields and Precious Metals

The 10-year US Treasury yield sits at 4.3%. Due to investors ‘ economic concerns, Gold’s value has skyrocketed, reaching $3,248.40 an ounce.

Automotive Industry

Sales and Inventory

US auto sales increased by 9.1% in March as consumers bought vehicles before the newly imposed tariff. However, due to supply chain issues, the inventory is set to fall to 700,000 units by 2025.

Fleet Sales

Fleet sales have been mixed. Commercial and government fleet sales have declined, while rental fleet sales have increased.

Business Lending and Funding

Commercial Lending

In 2025, commercial and multifamily lending is expected to reach $583 billion, a $71 billion increase from the previous year.

Residential Mortgage Professional

Mortgage industry professionals are gaining new virtual mortgage-related work due to the introduction of new licensing requirements, thereby streamlining the process and showcasing the increased tech-centric appliances in the industry.

Policy & Governance

Tariffs & Economic Impact

Trump’s tariffs have considerably impacted U.S.-China trade relations, with the WTO indicating an 80 percent plunge in merchandise trade between the two countries. Additionally, these tariffs are exacerbating inflation and economic instability.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiatives

The Trump administration has taken steps to roll back certain DEI programs, such as canceling some executive orders. This has caused a national stagnation of these initiatives within federal agencies and private companies.

Sanctuary Cities

There are no noteworthy changes about sanctuary cities, including Chicago and the state of Illinois.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLxigTnbIzY&list=RDNSFYEaVuNJ_CQ&index=2

In this video, we explore the fascinating lifestyle of Angus T. Jones, best known for his iconic role as Jake Harper on Two and a Half Men. We explore his life in 2025, covering everything from his hobbies and personal interests to the luxurious homes and cars he owns. We also break down his net worth and how he has evolved since his time in Hollywood.

Angus Turner Jones, an American actor recognized for his role as Jake Harper on the CBS sitcom Two and a Half Men, was born on October 8th, 1993, in Austin, Texas, and began working at 4.

Early Life

Jones is the son of Kelly Charles Jones and Carey Lynn Claypool, both of whom have been arrested for drug possession and assault. He grew up with an early sibling named Otto Jones. At age 4, he showed an aptitude for his future acting career by starring in various TV commercials for Home Depot and Kraft.

Acting Career

He debuted at 5 years old, starring in a small role in Simpatico (1999). Between 2001 and 2003, he had several supporting roles in See Spot Run (2001), The Rookie (2002), Bringing Down the House (2003), and George of the Jungle 2 (2003), as well as TV roles in ER and Dinner with Friends. In 2003, he received his breakout role as Jake Harper on Two and a Half Men. The show was a huge hit, averaging 15 million viewers during its peak. His character, the mischievous son of Jon Cryer, became a fan favorite and earned Jones two Young Artist Awards (2004, 2006) and a TV Land Award (2009). In 2010, he became the highest-paid child actor in history after signing a $7.8 million contract, $300,000 per episode.

During the show’s ninth season (2011–2012), Jake’s storylines evolved to adult, including marijuana use and sexual activity, which Jones found distasteful. In November 2012, after his baptism in the Seventh Day Adventist Church, he lashed out at the show in a YouTube video for Forerunner Chronicles, calling it “filth” and urging people to stop watching it. This resulted in his role being reduced to recurring status for season 11, where he did not appear at all that season. He officially departed in March 2014 but returned for the series finale in February 2015, where Jones portrayed a character who was depicted as married with stepchildren. Besides these, Jones was also featured in *The Christmas Blessing* (2005), Due Date (2010), CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (2008), Hannah Montana (2010), and his last acting role was in the web series Horace and Pete (2016).

Life After Acting Career

Following his work on Two and a Half Men, Jones attended the University of Colorado Boulder, where he majored in Jewish studies after initially pursuing environmental studies. In 2016, he joined the management team at Tonite, a multimedia and event production firm founded by Justin Combs, the son of Sean Combs. He has remained out of the spotlight, concentrating on business and philanthropic activities like supporting the First Star Organization and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Family Life

Friends claim that Jones has been dating Sarah M. (Stalker Sarah) since 2012, but given his personal life, he does not discuss this nor use any social media platforms. He is also 5’7″ (1.7m) and has a lightweight frame at 148 lbs (67 kg). He has blue eyes and light brown hair and is estimated to have a net worth of around $ 15 m- 25 m, mostly earned from his investment and Two and a Half Men earnings.

Impact

His life story from child star to recluse shows that Jones seeks personal freedom and chronicles the pressures of child fame. The Hollywood religion spurred debate about the demands of being a child star and Hollywood’s cult-like expectations towards child stars. Although having all but retired, his performance as Jake Harper continues to be a beloved part of sitcom history.

Whether you’re a fan of the show or just curious about what Angus T.Jones has been up to, this video will give you an insider’s look at his journey post-acting and how he’s living today. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more celebrity lifestyle content!

https://youtu.be/JvJ912j43QU?si=p26jkekwxk8PR1KS

• This discussion was modified 3 days, 18 hours ago by  Gustan Cho.

I am waiting until I file my 2022 taxes to apply for an FHA loan; I hear lenders are a lot stricter due to COVID-19, especially with those who are self-employed. My question is, with a 630 average FiCO score (2,4,5) and my new taxes showing increasing income in the new year (2023), what other concerns should I have or try to prepare for when I apply for an FHA? DTI is low as well

I want to purchase a home. But I’m stuck with the Debt to Income Ratio. Not because I have debt. I don’t have debt ( I already paid it all). However, my income for W2 2020 is only $41,000, or around $3600/month. I have 150K in my bank, but I only want to use it for a downpayment of 3,5% because I want to use the rest of the money to build ADU, maybe about 2 or 3 bedrooms, so I can rent it to other people to make income. because rent average around here is for room rent about 800- 900 per month. I stuck with the DTI Ratio because of my recent income and high house prices around my city. I need a purchase price of 450k-500k with 3,5%. and my credit score is 700. So yeah, that’s the situation. I need advice or a solution.

Qualifying For Mortgage With Charge Off With Balances. I have multiple outstanding charge-off accounts with balances. Can I qualify for a mortgage?

Should I close out aged credit card accounts?

I am looking to purchase a house via FHA. I have a total of $1996.4 I (including my student loans) monthly payments and make approx. $7600/month. What are the guidelines for getting student loans and applying for a first-time buyer loan for an FHA? Is there an alternative way to qualify when I have high student loans?

I have been in Chapter 13 for over two years with no missed payments. I would like to seek a voluntary discharge and pay off my remaining debt. Would a voluntary discharge prevent me from securing an FHA home loan?

What is affiliate marketing and how do you get started? Can you make good money with affiliate marketing? What are the step by step process in getting started and becoming successful with affiliate marketing?

What is a podcast? How can you start a podcast and make money? How do you monetize with YOUTUBE.COM and other social media channels. How do podcasters make tons of money? Can anyone start a podcast? What are successful types of podcasts to monetize asap

How do you monetize from YouTube? How do I make money making YouTube videos? What category should I focus on to monetize on YouTube.

EPM EMPOWERED DPA program is the best down payment assistance mortgage grant program in the nation. You need a 620 credit score, front and back end debt to income ratios of 48.99%, rate of 7.75%, borrower paid compensation, and need an automated underwriting system findings approval. The EMPOWERED DPA PROGRAM is for first time homebuyers, first Responders, Veterans, Volunteers, teachers, medical professionals, veterans, government workers, and families who have income no greater than 140% of the areas median household income. Here is a guide on the EPM EMPOWERED DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM. The EPM EMPOWERED DPA PROGRAM is available in all states except for Washington state. If you are interested in qualifying for EPM EMPOWERED DPA PROGRAM Contact Gustan Cho Associates dba of NEXA Mortgage LLC at gcho@gustancho.com or call 262-627-1965. Text us for a Faster Response. GCA MORTGAGE GROUP is licensed in 48 states including Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS.

https://www.gustancho.com/down-payment-assistance

gustancho.com

Down Payment Assistance

Down Payment Assistance

Inflation rates are soaring like never in history. Mortgage Rates are at 25 year highs. Mortgage rates we 2.5% 18 months ago and today is 7.625% for prime borrowers. Borrowers with sub 680 credit scores are paying 7.75% plus 3.5% in discount points. Home prices are at historic highs. Many would be homebuyers are priced out of the housing market. The mortgage industry lost 50,000 licensed mortgage loan originators from 140,000 to 90,000 and is expected to see more loan officers leave the mortgage industry. Every thing is going up. Car prices have skyrocketed and continues to go higher. Homeowners insurance premiums are increasing like never before. Joe Biden makes a speech a few days ago saying that Inflation is low under his watch. What is this guy thinking?

https://youtu.be/94-xcl1m6hk?si=g29nmNkMs2ZvY_Mg

Lending Network, LLC is aggressively looking commercial loan officers as independent contractors

https://lendingnetwork.org/commercial-loan-officer-career-opportunities/

lendingnetwork.org

Commercial Loan Officer Career Opportunities

Lending Network, LLC offers commercial loan officer career opportunities with no experience to select goal oriented individuals.

Rent-to-own with Home Partners of America enables rents to get a home with the option to purchase at a later date. The renter would be guaranteed the home they are renting until a loan officer work on their credit so the renter qualifies for a mortgage. The rent to own homebuyer would either need to rebuild their credit or income during they are renting. Home Partners of America (HPA) coordinates the rent-to-own homes. Here is a link to Rent-To-Own Homes

https://fhabadcreditlenders.com/rent-to-own-homes

fhabadcreditlenders.com

Rent-To-Own Homes With Home Partners of America

Rent-to-own homes with Home Partners of America helps renters move into a home today while getting ready to get qualified for a mortgage loan.

Is Kamala Harris the best candidate The Democrats have to face former President Donald Trump for 2024 Presidential Election? Are the Democrats that desperate of having a semi-descent candidate for President? Do Democrats think the American people are that stupid? Do Democrats need to name Kamala Harris, the person who slept her way up the political latter? Kamala Harris slept with former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown to kick off her political career. Kamala Harris is not too smart. Many people cannot believe how she even became a lawyer let alone District Attorney of San Francisco, Attorney General of California, United States Senator, and Vice President of the United States. Now she is running for President? OMG. What has Kamala Harris ever achieved in her political career. Watch this video clip about Kamala Harris.

https://www.youtube.com/live/RcsRfo16ZC8?si=gFA0rsAlw8iu0KLU

California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoes bill that would have given undocumented immigrants access to home loans. Can you please explain the $150,000 Housing Grant Bill to undocumented immigrants in California?

https://www.foxla.com/news/newsom-vetoes-bill-housing-loans-illegal-immigrants

• This discussion was modified 7 months, 1 week ago by  Gustan Cho.

foxla.com

Newsom vetoes controversial bill that would have given housing loans to illegal immigrants

California Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a controversial bill that would have given hundreds of thousands of dollars in housing loans to illegal immigrants.

what are the qualifications for a house to be approve for a FHA loan?

What if I just lost my job and cannot afford my mortgage payments?

What is the statute of limitations on debt in California? What is the statute of limitations on credit card debt in California?

Where/who can I turn to for flexible/lenient mortgage financing?

What Are The Minimum Credit Scores To Qualify For A FHA Loan?

What If My Credit Scores Dropped During Mortgage Process?

What Are Non-Qualified Mortgages Versus Qualified Mortgages?

WHAT ARE HARD MONEY LOANS AND PRIVATE MONEY LOANS?

• This discussion was modified 8 months, 1 week ago by  Gustan Cho.

What does being judgment proof mean? How can you qualify for a mortgage with an outstanding judgment? Can you get approved for a mortgage if you are judgment proof? How can you get rid of a judgment.

What does it mean if a mortgage lender does a rapid rescore on your credit report. How does the rapid rescore process work? How long does a rapid rescore take.

What constitutes mortgage fraud? How can innocent borrowers and loan officers get in trouble committing mortgage fraud. What are the different forms of mortgage fraud.

Can you tell me what is a HARP mortgage loan? How Did HARP LOAN WORK? HARP Replacement Program. Is the government HARP Mortgage Program Real? Is the HARP Mortgage Loan Still Available?