I have a 8 year old male Boston Terrier and his right side of his head near his eye is puffed up like he has a cyst, tumor, or inflamation for the past three weeks. The swollen area is reducing the size of his eyelid and bleeds from time to time (drops). Can you advise on what the problem could be and the cure? I know I should take the dog to the veterinarian but cannot afford to. A similar situation like inflamed swollen part of the head on an Old English Mastiff and it was a $2,000 vet bill. The diagnosis outcome was a incurable tumor. I would appreciate any thoughts and advice. Antibiotics did not work.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-r2g-l7j2g

GCA Forums News For Thursday, April 9, 2026.

The nation faced a rush of major news: President Trump’s brief Iran ceasefire, big swings in oil, stocks, and Bitcoin, changes in gold and silver prices, election fallout, shakeups involving Pam Bondi and Pete Hegseth, shifts in housing and mortgages, concerns about inflation and jobs, budget debates in New York, Illinois, and California, fraud warnings, and new developments in the auto industry.

GCA Forums News Report for Thursday, April 9, 2026: Fragile Iran Ceasefire Drives Volatility in Oil, Stocks, Bitcoin, Politics, and Housing.

On April 9, 2026, attention turned to President Trump’s unexpected ceasefire with Iran. Markets reacted positively at first, but optimism faded when the truce broke down and the Strait of Hormuz stayed closed. Oil prices fell, while stocks and precious metals climbed, and Bitcoin remained volatile.

The Shake-Up in the Pentagon: Pete Hegseth’s Move Raises New Concerns

Political fallout from the April 7 elections continued, and questions about the midterms increased as the Pentagon dealt with Pam Bondi’s removal and an upcoming change at the Federal Reserve.

The Iran ceasefire was viewed as a major move away from crisis, mainly because the Strait of Hormuz was at stake. Wall Street responded quickly: the Dow rose by 1,325 points, the Nasdaq and Russell 2000 also went up, and oil prices dropped below $95 a barrel. As the situation shifted, investors adjusted their strategies.

IRAN Ceasefire

Reuters and AP described the ceasefire as temporary, noting ongoing concerns about shipping in the Strait and continued regional tensions. painted a picture of near-paralysis in the Strait of Hormuz, ceasefire or not. The Associated Press observed oil prices clawing their way back up, stock gains losing steam, and traders openly doubting the truce’s staying power. The promised peace dividend has yet to arrive.

Why Oil First Crashed, Then Bounced: Why the Iran Ceasefire Didn’t Fully Soothe the Markets

The two-week ceasefire led to a drop in oil prices as traders hoped for a positive outcome. Goldman Sachs cut its oil price forecast for the second quarter. However, prices quickly rebounded because the Strait of Hormuz remained blocked and other regional conflicts persisted.

What This Means for Investors and Consumers

At first, markets felt relieved, but soon became uneasy. If oil prices remain high, the Federal Reserve cannot lower rates, which keeps pressure on the housing market. Gas prices, inflation, bond yields, mortgage rates, and consumer confidence are all uncertain.

On Wednesday, the Dow and Nasdaq rose 2.8%, but by Thursday, investors grew cautious again amid oil prices and the shaky truce.

The Dow was up 4.28% on Thursday, slightly below last week’s 4.30%, but still much higher than before the Iran conflict. This back-and-forth means mortgage rates will likely stay high, even after a brief drop earlier in the week, especially with ongoing hurricane damage adding to the uncertainty.

As the Investor Sentiment Was a Mix of Relief and Uncertainty, Gold and Silver Prices Rose

Gold rose by 1%, and Gold increased by 1%, and silver climbed to $75.84 an ounce, up 2.3% in a single day, according to Reuters. Even as stocks rose, investors remained cautious, hoping for lasting peace but preparing for inflation or new issues if the ceasefire did not hold.

Why Gold and Silver Increased Despite Equity Markets Rallying

Reuters reports that since the US/Israel-Iran conflict started on February 28, gold prices have continued to rise due to ongoing uncertainty. Investors are closely watching inflation, since higher inflation increases the value of precious metals.

Bitcoin: After the Relief Bounce, Thursday Was CoolerBTC market information

• Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency.
• Current Price is 71895.0 USD with a change of 451.00 USD (0.01%) from the last close.
• The highest and lowest prices are 72328.0 USD and 70531.0 USD, respectively.

Reuters reported that Bitcoin traded near $71,895 and went above $72,000 during the day. After the ceasefire, investors were more willing to take risks, but caution soon returned. Another Reuters update showed Bitcoin at $70,680 on Thursday. These shifts show that Bitcoin acted like a risky asset, rising when peace seemed likely and falling when confidence in the ceasefire faded. Its price moves with global news. The ceasefire has brought traders back to riskier bets, and uncertainty in the Persian Gulf is making Bitcoin more attractive. At the same time, unconfirmed reports that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is changing Pentagon leadership add to the unpredictability.

At this time, the broader claim about Hegseth has been denied. Rumors that Hegseth fired three generals and the chief of staff have not been confirmed by reliable sources, though reports of major leadership changes continue.

What the Midterms Tell Us About Wisconsin, Georgia

Meanwhile, Democrats achieved significant victories in several key districts, including Wisconsin, Waukesha, Texas, and Florida. In Georgia, Clay Fuller lost the runoff but by a much smaller margin than in previous elections in that traditionally Republican area.

The American Prospect signals Wisconsin as a strong pickup opportunity for Democrats. For example, the Press stated that Democrat Chris Taylor won the Wisconsin Supreme Court election, increasing the liberal majority and allowing Democrats to influence upcoming battles over redistricting, abortion, and labor in this key swing state.

What This Means for the 2026 House and Senate

It is still unclear which party will control the House or Senate. Democrats have outperformed expectations in recent elections, while the GOP has had some setbacks. Although Democrats have won a large share of votes, the GOP has also made gains. With most of the House and about one-third of the Senate up for election later this year, experts are watching special and judicial races to help predict the outcome.

The Pam Bondi Aftermath: What’s Next for the Justice Department?

Fallout of Pam Bondi Confirmed: Deposition Battle in Progress, Successor Still in Limbo. Attorney Genelections as a way to gauge the overall political landscape, not so much, will be absent from the House Oversight April 14 deposition in the Epstein case.

Who to Watch as a Potential Replacement for Pam Bondi in the Wake of the DOJ Reshuffle

Pam Bondi has been removed from her position, according to onthe latest information. Since she is no longer in office, the subpoena does not apply, but Oversight members say they still want her testimony. Todd Blanche has taken over most of Bondi’s responsibilities, according to Reuters.

Who Could Replace Bondi?

Major news outlets confirm that Todd Blanche is now handling Bondi’s former duties. As of Thursday afternoon, President Trump has not named a permanent replacement. For now, Bondi is out, Blanche is acting in her place, and a permanent successor has not been selected.

No reputable sources have verified any official action regarding the potential loss of Bondi’s Florida Bar license. While some dissenting opinions exist, no major wire reports substantiate this claim.

Kristi Noem, Stephen Miller, Kash Patel, And Others: Rumors Regarding Other Firings Hold True Until Verified

Rumors about more dismissals, a criminal accusation against Kristi Noem, and possible firings of Stephen Miller and Kash Patel have not been confirmed. Major news outlets have not backed up these claims. Following standard reporting practices, only confirmed changes—like Bondi’s dismissal and Pentagon leadership changes—are reported as verified. Until Reuters, AP, or official sources provide updates, these issues remain unconfirmed.

The First Amendment Question: Erika Kirk and Druski

Entertainment news sources report that DruskEntertainment news outlets say Druski’s parody of Erika Kirk has gone viral, and President Trump has suggested Kirk take legal action. So far, no major lawsuits have been filed. The First Amendment generally protects parody and satire. Since there are no legal filings, the controversy continues, the parody remains popular, and any lawsuit claims remain unconfirmed, according to current reports.

Fiscal Crisis Watch: New York, Illinois, and California

Governor Hochul has proposed a $254 billion budget for New York State for fiscal year 2026. Meanwhile, the State Comptroller’s office says New York City faces future budget gaps totaling $20.5 billion from 2028 to 2030. These gaps average $8.5 billion per year and could go over $12 billion annually if no action is taken.

Illinois: Pension Crisis Still Dominates the Long Game

Illinois’ FY 27 budget highlights the pension issue, with funding rising from 40.3% in 2019 to 47.9% now. Still, Illinois expects $35.3 billion in unpaid pension debt by 2045 under the current plan. By then, pension payments will rise from $11.9 billion to $18.6 billion. This ongoing problem keeps Illinois at the center of the nation’s financial challenges. Given that Governor JB Pritzker is running for a third term, national speculation about 2028 is unlikely to materialize unless he offers a clear stance.

California: Smaller Official Deficit Than Expected, but Still Another Deficit Year

The Governor’s office says California has a $2.9 billion budget deficit this year, but legislative analysts believe the deficit is actually higher. Yourth consecutive year with deficits in the billions. The Legislative Analyst’s Office said the governor’s January budget forecast a deficit of about $3 billion, which is less than the $18 billion the LAO estimated earlier.

Live Mortgage Rates vs. Housing Market Decline vs. Interest Rate Projections

Reuters reported that February’s PCE inflation rose 0.4% from the previous month and is 2.8% higher than last year. Weekly unemployment claims rose to 219,000 but remain fairly low. From the Federal Reserve’s perspective, inflation remains a concern and keeps decision-makers cautious, especially regarding energy prices.

According to Reuters, Powell’s term as Fed chair ends in May, but the White House is optimistic that Kevin Warsh will become the new chair by then. This does not guarantee a new rate hike cycle. A new chair will influence strategy; however, given inflation, other economic metrics, and energy prices, bond markets and mortgage rates will be heavily impacted.

Mortgage and Housing: The Cost of Affordability

The housing market is still slow. Freddie Mac’s weekly report shows the 30-year. The housing market remains sluggish. Freddie Mac’s weekly report shows the 30-year mortgage rate fell slightly to 6.37% from 6.46%. However, this is only a small relief after five straight weeks of rising rates. AP reports that higher interest rates make people less likely to get mortgages or buy homes, which reduces demand. Regardless of current pricing, housing market activity has decreased, and prices are declining accordingly.

Why the Housing Market Remains Stagnant Despite High Mortgage Rates

Very high rates, high prices, and economic worries have kept buyers away. While not every, high interest rates, high prices, and economic concerns have discouraged buyers. While not every area is doing worse than in 2007, housing is becoming less accessible across the country. Low demand and rising affordability concerns are slowing the market.

Current Situation

The Federal Trade Commission warns about scam text messages claiming your reward points are expiring. The FTC says these messages try to steal personal information or install harmful software on your device. The FBI says U.S. victims lost nearly $21 billion to online fraud, with cryptocurrency and AI-related scams making up the biggest part. The most common fraud reports involve email phishing, spam, scams, blackmail, and investment fraud.

Automotive News: Yes, There are Complaints About EV’s, But There are More Nuances to the Story than the Market

The EV market has faced complaints about high prices and a lack of charging stations, but the situation is more complex than it seems. Buyers are frustrated by high costs, limited charging infrastructure, and lower resale values, and demand has dropped since the $7,500 tax credit ended. Still, automakers continue to release new electric models. EVs now make up 6.5 percent of the U.S. auto market, the lowest share since early 2022. Some manufacturers note that as gas prices rise, more customers are interested in fuel-efficient cars.

Automotive News: EV Demand, Gas Prices, and Consumer BacklashAll told, EV demand is stuck in low gear. Buyers remain hesitant, but rising fuel prices and ongoing investment from automakers could yet shift the balance.

What Bitcoin Signals for the Level of Risk in the Markets

Editorial Bottom Line for Thursday, April 9, 2This report focuses on recent market turmoil. The ceasefire briefly lowered oil prices and boosted stocks, but the calm is shaky due to ongoing shipping problems. Bitcoin remains volatile, while gold and silver are seen as safe options. Democrats made gains after April 7, but the midterms are still uncertain. Washington is dealing with Bondi’s exit, Pentagon changes, and Powell’s upcoming departure. Inflation, a slow housing market, high interest rates, public frustration, and state budget issues continue to add pressure.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4RpjS7Jw4c

Does anyone know the difference of detailing your car, boat, or RV with ceramic coating versus regular car wax? What are the differences, comparisons, benefits, negatives, and the best bang for your money. Thank you.

The Expedition receives some big changes from Ford for 2022. On the outside you will find new LED lighting, grill, front fascia and wheels. On the inside there is a large infotainment system, updated materials and digital gauge cluster. Under the hood is aa 3.5L twin-turbo V6 that is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Is the NEW 2022 Ford Expedition a BETTER luxury SUV than a GMC Yukon Denali?

https://youtu.be/2TG2jzNZRlw?si=jTIb3aAlHcDFJrZ8

Latest Housing and Mortgage News

The housing market isn’t budging much. Mortgage rates are still high, fewer buyers are showing up, and homes are still hard to find. Because of this, builder confidence has stayed low. Most are now adding discounts and perks to get people to sign contracts. The commercial market also tells a mixed story. Office buildings are still struggling, and banks are lending less than last year. On the mortgage side, layoffs among loan officers, the closing of brokerage firms, and even a few bankruptcies are making headlines. Economists agree: we need mortgage rates to drop and stay low for the market to bounce back. But those rates will not fall fast if job numbers stay strong.

Mortgage Rates as of August 18, 2025

Mortgage rates have increased slightly but sit close to their lowest level of 2025, holding around the middle of the 6% zone for most products. The current 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is at 6.59%, a rise of 0.01% from last week. The 15-year fixed rate is 5.97%, up 0.02%. FHA 30-year fixed loans dip to 6.17%, down 0.01%, and VA 30-year fixed loans hold at 6.19%. The 30-year fixed refinance rate is holding steady at 6.66%. These numbers show a market reacting to small economic changes, particularly the upward push from rising Treasury yields.

Treasuries and Forecast

Full Treasury yield data for August 18, 2025, is still being compiled. However, recent movements indicate yields are still high and are placing upward pressure on mortgage rates. Predictions show the average mortgage rate should land at 6.7% for 2025, with a possible dip to 6.4% at the end of the year if inflation cools and the Federal Reserve considers rate cuts. Nonetheless, if job data remains steady, rates should stay in the 6.5% to 7% range. Treasury yields could drop further if inflation continues to moderate.

Trump Targeting Powell Directly

President Trump has ramped up his offensive against Jerome Powell, the Fed’s top official, calling him “stupefyingly incompetent” and accusing him of being “an embarrassing slowpoke” on the interest rate cuts that Trump believes should counter the pain of his tariff policies. Trump has written the outline of a letter seeking Powell’s ouster, dangled the possibility of a lawsuit that questions the very independence of the Fed, and even toyed with the idea of charging for his South Carolina renovations. He has started a shortlist of Powell’s would-be successors. So far, Powell has not been shown the door, his four-year clock ticking onward, and Trump is pushing nominees into the open Fed board slots. Should the ouster try to go live, Powell is widely expected to file for an emergency injunction, and the legal fracas could land on the Supreme Court’s lap.

Markets and Gold and Silver

Live market tickers are not at hand. However, the latest snapshots show equities teetering in indifferent formation against doubt. Gold is marked at $3,332.20 to $3,348.00 an ounce, with the calendar week bringing very little—an almost turnpike-flat drop of 0.05% at the worst and a 0.42% perk at the best. Silver shows a tighter band, at $37.96 to $38.12, tacking on 0.07% to 0.34% in the same slice. Gold has shifted into a lower orbit week-on-week, while silver holds a quiet horizontal line.

Inflation and the Economy

The U.S. economy is still holding up, but it’s walking a tightrope. July’s inflation was 2.7% a year, and we expect it to nudge up to 2.8%, mostly because of higher shelter and food prices. The jobless rate is 4.2%, and paychecks are growing 3.9% on average, but July’s jobs report was disappointing. A few experts labeled the numbers a “gut punch,” especially for the housing market.

Bankruptcies and layoffs are creeping up, especially in real estate and mortgages. Some firms are shutting down, and veteran loan officers are leaving the field because there’s insufficient commission money. Some folks still warn that the economy is about to tip over, but the numbers are so mixed that we can’t call a crash yet. The Fed, for now, still believes the economy will keep moving forward.

Chicago Leadership Under Pressure

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, facing stubbornly low approval numbers and a $500 million budget gap, started the school year by opening classroom doors for the 340,000 Chicago Public Schools students. Days later, he broke ground on a $1.3 billion expansion of the O’Hare Concourse D and released a round of small grants to community groups. When former President Donald Trump threatened to dispatch the National Guard to Chicago, Johnson called the statement a continuation of misinformation and authoritarian posturing, announcing he would protect the city’s home-rule authority. Governor JB Pritzker signed a new law that beefed up eligibility checks for public assistance, told Trump the nation would not defund Chicago police, and noted that the decision to end cash bail would rest with voters, not a court. Undaunted by federal warnings delivered by Bondi, Pritzker is still considering a 2028 White House run. Trump has called the Democratic duo “incompetent” multiple times, though the phrase has not appeared in actual verified social media. Bondi has sent letters to cities, including Chicago, about immigration enforcement and crime, but no formal legal action has reached the mayor or the governor; a wider Justice Department inquiry is, however, scrutinizing sanctuary policies.

Trump-Putin Summit (August 15, 2025)

Last Friday, the Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska wrapped up without a ceasefire for Ukraine, but Trump called it “great progress.” Putin asked for more land, while Trump told Kyiv it should come to the table and hinted at a future three-way sit-down. Papers left behind show the talks, and later, Trump downplayed the worry about an instant ceasefire.

Letitia James and Adam Schiff Allegations

The DOJ is investigating New York AG Letitia James and her Trump fraud case. A grand jury is handing out subpoenas, which her staff calls revenge. James is also facing mortgage fraud claims in Virginia. Senator Adam Schiff is under a federal investigation for possible mortgage fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, and lying about a Maryland property. A Democratic whistleblower says Schiff cut loose “treasonous” leaks. Special Attorney Ed Martin is in charge of both cases. The probes are still going, and no charges have come down yet.

Allegations Concerning Obama, Clinton, and Other Officials

Right-leaning outlets and newly released documents claim a “treasonous conspiracy” involving the Russia investigation that allegedly includes Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, John Brennan, James Clapper, James Comey, Adam Schiff, and some Biden administration officials. The accusations allege that these figures manufactured intelligence to undermine Donald Trump. Obama is said to have committed election fraud in 2020, plus accusations of child trafficking and arming ISIS. Clinton faces charges of crimes against humanity, election fraud, treason, and sedition. Brennan, Clapper, and Comey are accused of leaking false information. Schiff and current Biden aides are said to have acted corruptly, with some demanding indictments. Clapper called the treason claims “ridiculous.” So far, there have been no arrests or formal charges, and these accusations mostly circulate in opinion columns and on social media.

Dr. Anthony Fauci Update

After a short hospital stay, Dr. Anthony Fauci is recovering from West Nile virus. He had fever, chills, and fatigue, but is now on the mend. In recent interviews, he reflected on lessons from COVID, public health challenges the Trump administration left, and the importance of being ready for the next pandemic. There have been no new controversies related to him.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRCIPtafiqY&list=RDNSsRCIPtafiqY&start_radio=1

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Unveil the jaw-dropping life of Baron Trump, where extravagance reigns supreme! Surrounded by king luxury cars, private jets, and jaw-dropping estates like Mar-a-Lago, this 18-year-old heir to the Trump empire lives a billionaire’s fantasy. With a $100 million net worth already, Baron’s future promises billions and a garage packed with king luxury cars like Rolls-Royce and Bentley. From soaring in Trump Force One to rolling in king luxury cars that turn heads, his lifestyle screams power and privilege. Curious which king luxury cars he’ll claim next? Hit play to dive into this world of wealth, and guess his top pick in the comments—subscribe for more glimpses of the elite living it up with king luxury cars!
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https://youtu.be/s3vUL2OB4fg?si=9gOsLgzGIM9w7rfF

Inside Nicolas Cage’s Lost Car Collection—And What He Had to Sell to Pay His Debts… 💸🚗

He was one of Hollywood’s highest-paid stars—with a taste for fast cars, rare collectibles, and living life in the fast lane. But behind the scenes, Nicolas Cage’s empire was crumbling… and his legendary car collection was one of the first things to go.

💰 Over-the-top spending on exotic cars and one-of-a-kind classics
📉 Financial collapse that led to IRS debt in the tens of millions
🚘 Forced to sell off rare Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and even a Bugatti
🤯 The shocking vehicle he fought hardest to keep—and still lost

In this unbelievable deep dive, we uncover the real story behind Nicolas Cage’s rise, fall, and the jaw-dropping car collection he once owned. From ultra-rare muscle cars to vintage European icons, Cage built a garage most collectors only dream of… until it all had to go.

How did it happen? And what pieces of car history were lost in the process?

📺 Watch until the end to find out what Nicolas Cage once drove, what he sold to survive, and why his collection is still one of the wildest Hollywood ever saw.

https://youtu.be/A5Gqk2fpc2g?si=IRB7_p3y_su3-t9l

GCA Forums News-Weekend Edition from June 15 through June 22, 2025

Headline News: Key Events from June 15-22, 2025

From June 15 through June 22, 2025, headlines bounced between the economy, housing, and the wider world. Housing policy, inflation jitters, and fresh geopolitical flashes stole the spotlight, putting pressure on pocketbooks and decision-makers alike.

Housing and Mortgage Market: A Fragile Landscape

• Buyers probing the U.S. housing market met the same old suspects this week.
• High mortgage rates, slim listings, and a thick cloud of economic worry.
• What some thought would be a comeback year now feels more like a waiting game.

Mortgage Rates Decline Slightly

• Lending charts took a modest dip on June 20.
• The average 30-year mortgage totaled 6.84 percent, and the 15-year note settled at 5.96.
• Granted, those numbers still sit near the pandemic-era highs, so relief is not automatic.
• The latest drop marked the lowest 30-year rate since April, a shift tied to market nerves over tariffs and fresh geopolitical dustups.
• Still, analysts caution that households should plan for rates hovering above 6.5 percent through the end of 2025.
• The 2-to-3 percent lows of the pandemic feel like a distant memory, and many prospective buyers are feeling the pinch.

Inventory vs. Demand

• By April 2025, the number of houses for sale hit its highest point since early 2020, yet there still weren’t enough homes.
• The average mortgage rate hovered near 8%, and the median sale price reached $416,900 during the first quarter.
• That combination kept many would-be buyers on the sidelines.
• A close look at the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Index shows home values rose 3.4% from March 2024 to March 2025, marking almost two years of unbroken price gains.
• People who locked in low interest rates years ago mostly chose not to sell, which made the shortage feel even worse.

Market Slump Persists

• April brought another slip.
• Existing home sales dropped 2% compared to the year before, while pending contracts fell in nearly every state.
• Plenty of shoppers are simply battening the hatches, nervous about possible layoffs and stubborn mortgage rates.
• Leah and Jesse Jones, a couple in West Virginia, paused their hunt last month, betting prices will cool off eventually.

Housing Market Forecast

• Most experts don’t see a quick turnaround coming. Redfin recently estimated only a 1% drop in median prices by December, far from the crash some headlines promise.
• Realtor.com echoed that caution, warning high rates and renewed tariffs could keep demand in check.
• On Capitol Hill, FHFA director Bill Pulte blasted the Federal Reserve for high holding rates, arguing the strategy locks current homeowners into their cheap loans and keeps new listings off the market.

Looking Ahead: Mortgage Rates

• Most experts still guess that mortgage rates will settle around 7% for the next few years.
• They say big inflation drops or sudden unemployment spikes would have to happen first to push the Fed into cutting rates.
• Distant tariffs and glue-sticky Treasury yields keep nudging the cost of borrowing in the other direction.

Economy: A Wobbly Balance

• Many economists whisper the old stagflation word again.
• Growth is yawning, jobless numbers are creeping up, and prices still refuse to cool off.
• It feels like walking a tightrope that keeps twisting underneath you.

Smaller Growth: Fed Math Gets Cautious

• The Federal Reserve keeps using phrases like solid pace, but it just cut its 2025 GDP guess to 1.4%, down 0.3% from spring.
• Vans full of layoffs are turning up more often now, shoppers are hesitating at the register, and the overall growth number is quietly slipping.

Unemployment: The Job Market Cools

• May showed 139,000 new hires, which sounds good until you notice that earlier months were quietly shaved down.
• The jobless rate hit 4.2% then, yet the Fed nudged its 2025 forecast to 4.5%.
• That extra bump hints that the labor market is sliding toward a slower lane.

Prices: An Inflating Headache

• Consumer prices inched up 0.1% in May, leaving the yearly clock at 2.4%.
• Core PCE is now pegged at 3.1% for 2025, an uptick of 0.3% from the March file.
• Tariffs from the White House loom like storm clouds, and Jerome Powell calls the coming price hikes meaningful.

Federal Reserve’s Stance

• On June 18, the central bank kept the federal funds rate at 4.25 to 4.5 percent.
• That means there were four meetings without a hike or cut.
• The latest Summary of Economic Projections hints at two quarter-point trims by the end of the year.
• Chair Jerome Powell warned that fresh tariffs and global dustups could push those moves well into the distance.
• Board member Christopher Waller added that if inflation cools, the first cut might appear as soon as July.
• Even so, a handful of colleagues are still playing it safe.

Powell Under Fire

• Former President Donald Trump and FHFA chief Bill Pulte did not hold back.
• They labeled Powell stupid and yelled for an immediate slash of 2 to 2.5 percentage points.
• Trump insisted that lower rates are the best way to dodge a recession.
• Pulte piled on by saying the high cost of borrowing is nursing the housing pinch.
• For his part, Powell pointed to tariff-fueled price pressures as the reason to wait.

Money Printing Concerns

• No fresh evidence appeared that the Fed is cranking out cash, yet the call for deep cuts still sparked jitters about a loose money plan.
• Analysts caution that ongoing tariff pressures may force the central bank to keep its grip tight and avoid bloating the money supply.

Financial Markets

• Wall Street and commodity pits were a study in cautious bouncing.
• Traders are still wrestling with the three-headed monster of tariffs, inflation fears, and geopolitical flare-ups.

Dow Jones and Market Indices

• The Dow Jones Industrial Average ended the week at just under 42,207, adding 150 points, or 0.35 percent.
• The S&P 500 climbed 0.37 percent, and the Nasdaq added 0.48 percent, though both indexes felt their legs give out as traders sat on their hands before the Federal Reserve’s June 18 statement.
• Over at the CBOE, the Volatility Index, known as the VIX, Parks itself at 13, a number that whispers calm even as storm clouds drift in the background.

Silver and Gold Prices

• Nobody dropped headline figures for silver or gold this week.
• Yet headlines about fresh saber-rattling between Israel and Iran baited speculators who love shiny, safe-haven assets.
• It’s hardly a breath of data.
• The gut instinct is that nervy investors might soon push bullion higher.

Tariff Impact

• Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs, which were rolled out in April, still create audible ripples on trading floors.
• Economists remind us that pricier imports eventually wind up in grocery carts and on monthly bills.
• When that happens, inflation could spike hard enough to nudge the economy toward recession.
• The Federal Reserve says the trade fog has cleared a bit but keeps its binoculars trained on price trends, just in case.

Trump and Elon Musk

• No fresh buzz about Donald Trump’s ongoing feud with Elon Musk has leaked.
• Even though their occasional buddy-buddy moments echo through political and tech circles, this is true.
• Musk backed Trump on the campaign trail, and that partnership casts a long shadow, even when nothing new hits the wires.

California Electric Vehicle Mandate

• Former President Trump recently renewed his vow to scrap California’s electric vehicle (EV) rules, a promise that still echoes from his first term.
• The White House hasn’t filed formal paperwork this week, yet the talk fits neatly into his larger drive to slash federal regulations.
• Supporters cheer economic freedom, while critics worry about the air Californians will be forced to breathe.

What Drivers Are Saying Online

• Social media’s mood has tilted negatively as users weigh sticker prices, range anxiety, and the patchwork charging network.
• No big safety recalls have hit the headlines, yet the cloud of doubt hangs heavy.
• Trump’s blunt one-liners keep that skepticism front and center on platforms like GCA Forums.

Israel-Iran War Heats Up

• Fighter jets and missiles are once again dominating the east Mediterranean sky, with Israeli bombers reportedly striking Iranian targets.
• Fear of a wider Middle East firefight is palpable in D.C., where the Federal Reserve warns only that oil prices could spike but insists that long-term inflation blues are not guaranteed to follow.

What Higher Crude Costs Mean for Wallets

• A sudden jolt in oil prices makes every tanker shipper and small-business bookkeeper pause.
• The Fed struggles with interest rates, and any new price shock could nudge it toward tougher choices.
• Global trade routes that reroute or slow leave the U.S. economy guessing about growth when those numbers finally come in.

Law Enforcement and Justice: FBI and DOJ Developments

• Kash Patel, the new FBI chief, leads the agency’s calendar with Tal, who talks about treason and fraud, while spokesman Dan Bongino keeps the microphones hot.
• Nobody has been cuffed yet, but the bureau appears eager to chase what insiders call Biden-era crimes.
• Meanwhile, Pam Bondi, who moonlights as a U.S. Attorney, still hasn’t added any names to her indictment list.
• The White House keeps shouting about “crimes against humanity,” yet Monday morning headlines offered nothing but crickets.
• Mortgage fraud is whisper-quiet this week, and state officials haven’t announced big busts either.
• Foreclosure notices dipped 2% in early 2025, indicating that most homeowners are still treading water despite sky-high interest rates.

Economic Crisis and Recession Fears

• Housing affordability is bruised and swollen, with sky-high rates, stubbornly high prices, and a selling sign inventory blinking at empty.
• Analysts say the market is on the edge of a 2008-style cliff, thanks to pickier lenders, but the kitchen table warns that home values could wobble sideways for months if not years.

Possible Storm Clouds in 2025

• Rumors of another recession have started to circulate again.
• Tariffs keep creeping higher, growth numbers feel flatter, and a few economists are already tracking small rises in unemployment.
• People can’t help but recall 2008, even if the root causes are swapping out.
• Back then, a busted housing market shattered banks.
• Today, tension comes mostly from runaway prices and shaky trade lanes.
• The Federal Reserve is tiptoeing with interest rates, and some observers blame Trump-era spending moves for any extra push we might feel.

How Deep Might It Go?

• Opinions are as split as a family arguing over pizza toppings.
• A handful of forecasters warn that exploding global debt and jammed supply chains could land us in a downturn worse than the Great Recession.
• On the flip side, steady job reports and a low unemployment percentage still light a small beacon of hope.
• Many Wall Street watchers insist that if the Fed can wrestle inflation linked to tariffs, the economy might roll with the punches instead of folding.

Other Headlines Worth Mentioning

• Los Angeles felt different heat on June 19 when flames tore through a commercial building at 215 E Winston Street.
• Over 100 firefighters got the call, and though no one was injured, the smell of smoke lingered long after the hoses were packed up.
• Twitter, now branded as X, lit up with videos of the rescue and fresh fears about city safety.

Entertainment Minute

In lighter fare, the drama series Our Unwritten Seoul hooked fans with a cliffhanger, with half the Internet spoiler-alerting within minutes.

At the same time, Kansas City Royals pitcher Matt Erceg faced boos after a shaky outing, an all-too-human reminder that even athletes are not immune to bad days.

June 15-22, 2025, brought one ugly reminder after another of how quickly the U.S. economy and the rest of the world can become entangled. Sellers still sat on their homes, and buyers grumbled about 8 percent loans.

There was no great news on either front. President Trump blasted the Federal Reserve for playing it so carefully, claiming tariffs were cooking prices, and foreign squabbles only made it harder.

A trickle of layoff notices and a stall in factory orders stoked fresh talk of recession, and the fresh flare-up between Israel and Iran sent Wall Street into another jittery afternoon.

The Oval Office pressed ahead with deregulation, openly trying to unwind most anything Biden had put in place. That left investors guessing on nearly every line they read. Keep your phone on. These threads will change before you finish your morning coffee.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APD5gNeIJjY

Can you get charged for a DUI in Illinois if you are parked and are sitting in your car without the engine running?

Illinois Governor JB PRITZKER is the Governor of the state of Illinois. Can anyone familiar on Illinois share their experiences and opinions about Illinois Governor JB PRITZKER? What has PRITZKER do to benefit the people and businesses in Illinois. I know JB Pritzker was always a politician wanna be and spent a fortune to get elected. Can you please tell me Pritzker’s biography. I heard the 5’5″ 500 pound obese Governor is allowing illegal immigrants to become police officers. What other stupid things is Pritzker doing that can be a potential threat to Illinoisans.

This little Gorilla looks like a Chimpanzee. However, it’s a baby Gorilla with a phenomenal personality and character. Extremely smart, kind, intr

Intelligent, and entertainment. Look at how he wants to please his fans at tge zoo. Extremely loving and very loveable. Watch this short video clip.

https://youtube.com/shorts/UGE3Iv5r_K8?si=vdWDQLGpm1CZ4sDq

California has restrictions on classic car owners restricting use of classic cars. There is much resistance from classic car owners to the general automotive industry. There are over 40 million people who live in the state of California.

California is planning to ban the travel of vintage and classic cars, according to a report by The Daily Caller. The state sent a questionnaire to vintage car owners after it considered creating so-called zero emissions zones. Joining NTD to discuss the move is Lauren Fix, an automotive expert and founder at Car Coach Reports. She says classic cars are not big polluters, as most are only driven a few hundred miles a year, compared to the thousands of miles driven by modern cars for commuting or other activities. She discusses what California is planning for their car culture with Governor Gavin Newsom.

Thanks for watching!

https://youtu.be/yIMFcCCQ2Rg?si=vm4KnyacbB3LAzau

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

What is correspondent mortgage lending?

Is the coronavirus vaccine deadly? A lot of stories and reports that healthy individuals who got vaccinated dropped dead without any other reason except after taking the coronavirus vaccine.

I still do not have the right answer on the question I have been asking what is an FHA case number. Why is it mortgage lenders make a big deal about transferring an FHA case number from one lender to another.

Should 2 late payments on a time share stop my refinance from going? Should I wait out filing bankruptcy if debt collectors are leaving me alone?

Should I postpone buying a new car until after you close on your home loan? Should I wait to buy a home when my student loans are in in-school deferment status?

Should I enter into a monthly payment agreement with a creditor $100 a month on a 8k debt so my DTI stays low?

If I have older outstanding collection accounts and charge-off accounts, should I contact the collection agency in the hope that they did not place a lien on me or I have a judgment? And if I do have a lien, can I ask the collection agency or creditor that the lien has not been renewed?

What are reserves and how does reserves work? When do mortgage lenders ask for reserves?

WHY IS THE CITY OF CHICAGO LOSING RESIDENTS and BUSINESSES?

WHY DO MORTGAGE LOAN OFFICERS KEEP ON CHANGING EMPLOYERS SO OFTEN? SOME MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATORS HAVE CHANGED JOBS 12 TIMES IN ONE YEAR.

In California, to refinance a property I owned before marriage, does my spouse need to sign?

Hello hope you’re well, have question for you. My brother was divorced but the house is in his wife name and his and the payment and deed are in both. He has 3 children will his part go to his kids.

Deseret First Credit Union has halted lending for loan officers due to credit volatility. I contacted the Deseret Credit Union Loan Operations Department at 801-456-7950 and spoke with Consumer Loan Officer Spencer. And have confirmed Deseret Credit Union has suspended extending credit and financing to NMLS-licensed mortgage loan originators and realtors. No other professionals besides those in the mortgage and real estate industries are affected by not qualifying and getting approved for credit cards, auto loans, consumer loans, second mortgages, mortgages, installment loans, and other types of financing. Spencer said the suspension of extending financing to loan officers and realtors order came from upper management and the board of directors. The suspension of extending credit to loan officers and real estate agents will be in effect until the credit markets drop substantially. If you are a commissioned loan officer or realtor, I recommend checking the latest news updates or contacting any bank or credit union directly for the most current information. They may be able to provide you with details about the situation and any potential implications for borrowers and loan officers. According to Deseret First Credit Union Loan Officer Spencer, Deseret First Credit Union has suspended extending credit to all loan officers and real estate agents on commission wage earners since August 2022. I heard about Deseret First Credit Union suspending extending credit to mortgage loan originators and real estate agents through Gustan Cho, President and CEO of Lending Network, LLC and partner of Gustan Cho Associates Mortgage Group. I had multiple associates and colleagues, including myself, verify this matter. Is this something that will continue in the coming weeks and months? Is this a sign of another 2008 financial crisis? Many commissioned mortgage and real estate wage earners have been filing for forbearance requests at an alarming rate from late 2022 into 2023. This is a wake up call of the 2008 financial crisis when banks and credit unions unions halted extending business credit lines of credit in August 2008 prior to the real estate and credit collapse. Stay tuned. I will post updated on this topic in the coming days.

Here is an informative article on understanding forbearance published on Gustan Cho Associates.

https://gustancho.com/understanding-forbearance/

• This discussion was modified 1 year, 2 months ago by  Sapna Sharma.
• This discussion was modified 1 year, 1 month ago by  Sapna Sharma.

gustancho.com

Mortgage Forbearance During Pandemic Mortgage Crisis

Mortgage Forbearance During Pandemic: Forbearance is offered by mortgage servicers to homeowners impacted by the coronavirus crisis

What is the 6th Insurrection all about?

Brick and Mortar expenses for a mortgage broker company is one of the highest overheads for a mortgage company. There are many mortgage companies becoming a virtual mortgage company. Is it feasiable to have a mortgage brokerage licensed in multiple states a virtual mortgage broker using the ZOOM platform?