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GCA Forums News For Friday January 16 2026
GCA Forums News: Detailed and Comprehensive Report – Friday 16th January 2025
This report is produced by Gustan Cho Associates, specialists in Non-QM, FHA, VA, and other mortgage products.
This edition of GCA Forums News presents a structured overview of key sectors, including finance, politics, real estate, precious metals, and the general economy. Supported by Gustan Cho Associates (GCA), the report outlines mortgage services (Non-QM, FHA, VA) and strategies for navigating a high-interest environment. The content is optimized for SEO and addresses major topics, including the U.S. Department of Justice subpoena of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, economic outlooks, stock market updates, significant political events, and surges in precious metals. Each section provides timely updates on popular search queries about mortgages, the Federal Reserve, and the housing market.
The following section summarizes headline news, focusing on significant national matters. Recent reports indicate that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has allegedly issued a criminal subpoena to the Federal Reserve’s chairman. The situation and any resulting investigations into the Federal Reserve are developing and may be influenced by current and future administrations, such as the incoming Trump administration. As of January 16, 2025, neither the Federal Reserve nor the DOJ has confirmed these claims; this report remains speculative and cites Reuters and The Wall Street Journal. Available facts are presented, and updates will be provided as more information emerges.
A criminal subpoena is typically issued in response to an ongoing investigation; in this instance, it concerns the Center for the Renovation of the Federal Reserve’s Building. The renovation was initially budgeted at 2.5 billion dollars, but recent reports and investigations indicate that costs will now exceed 4.1 billion dollars. The project has become a primary focus for congressional oversight committees and has raised significant concerns among taxpayers regarding fiscal responsibility.
The Eccles Building, the Federal Reserve’s headquarters since 1937, is undergoing modernization to improve security, infrastructure, and sustainability. However, Government Accountability Office (GAO) audits have identified inefficiencies, contractor disputes, and potential mismanagement. No publicly available documents indicate criminal activity by Powell, but the subpoena may seek documents or statements regarding oversight failures. Following service of the subpoena, Powell stated, “We will fully cooperate with any inquiries while keeping our independence,” emphasizing the Federal Reserve’s commitment to transparency.
The subpoena has intensified scrutiny of the Federal Reserve. President-elect Donald Trump, scheduled to be inaugurated on January 20, 2025, has previously indicated intentions to reform or significantly alter the Federal Reserve’s functions, citing its influence on monetary policy. Opinions on the necessity and consequences of such reforms remain divided. Some critics highlight institutional issues, while commentator Paul Krugman attributes economic uncertainty to the politicization of the Federal Reserve. Additional actions, including potential executive orders, may follow the presidential transition.
The latest subscriptions will include updates on “Jerome Powell subpoena details” and “Federal Reserve reform.”
Live measurement of economic indicators includes interest rates, mortgage rates, and the 10-year Treasury yield, sourced from Bloomberg and Freddie Mac.
Federal Funds Rate (Live): Currently between 4.50% and 4.75% due to the Fed cut from December 2024. After Powell’s latest September statements, hikes monthly and quarterly are out for the foreseeable future. Inflation adjustments and data might lead to changes for Q1.
Mortgage Rates (Live): Average 30-year fixed mortgage rates are now at 6.85% (a 0.05% increase from last week), according to Mortgage News Daily. 15-year fixed rates are at 6.10%. Continued pressure on rates affects affordability at closing.
10-Year Treasury Yield (Live): Yield is now at 4.25%. Investor concern stems from the ongoing Fed rate hikes and geopolitical conflicts and tensions.
Expected Housing and Mortgage Trends for 2026:
The 2026 outlook for the U.S. housing market is cautiously optimistic, according to NAR, Fannie Mae, and Zillow.
Home Prices are anticipated to increase by 2-4% yearly. However, this represents a downturn from 2024 price peaks, driven by high demand and inventory increases (an expected year-over-year upturn of 15%). This increasing demand will continue to price out potential buyers, especially in markets like Southern California and Florida.
Expected Mortgage Rates: With inflation projected to decline to 2% by mid-2026, mortgage rates are expected to decrease to 5.5%-6.0%. Despite this reduction, rates will remain elevated, likely leading to a “soft landing” characterized by slower sales over an extended period.
Overall Market Forecast (Live): New home supply has increased to 4.2 months, resulting in a less competitive seller’s market. New construction is up 8%, but buyer hesitation due to elevated rates may lead to a 5% to 7% sales decline in Q1 2025. Non-QM loans offer flexible options for buyers in this environment.
Live Stock Market Updates, Dow Jones, and other Major Indices
As of 10:00 AM ET January 16, 2025
Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA): 42,150 (+0.25%), boosted by tech gains in spite of Fed subpoena.
S&P 500: 5,720 (+0.30%) led by gains in energy and finance.
Nasdaq: 18,450 (+0.40%), led by AI and chips.
General Sentiment: Moderate Volatility (VIX 18), focusing on Q4, possible Trump tariffs.
Spotlight Precious Metals: Live Silver Price Soars and Investor Concern
Today, silver reached an all-time high of 93.15, according to Kitco Metals, following a substantial price increase of over 200% from 2024 levels. Increased global demand for silver has contributed to these record prices.
Customers have increasingly expressed frustration regarding JM Bullion, as reflected in online forums discussing delayed shipments and a lack of tracking updates. These issues are likely attributable to supply chain disruptions or elevated demand. It is advisable to conduct transactions with reputable dealers and to consider the differences between spot and physical premiums.
Some analysts, including Robert Kiyosaki, have speculated on significant future increases in silver prices. These predictions, ranging from $1,000 to $20,000, are not supported by historical price trends. More conservative forecasts from industry experts, such as the CPM Group, estimate that silver prices could reach $50- $100 by 2026.
This section explores recent viral political moments, centering on the Minneapolis mayor’s comments regarding ICE and ongoing urban political tensions. It also highlights recent corruption cases that have affected cities across the political spectrum.
The next section details the ongoing Feeding the Future scandal in Minnesota and Senegal, a case that reportedly involves over $250 million and continues to generate headlines and investigations.
Minnesota remains under investigation for the Feeding the Future fraud scandal, which involves over $250 million. Ongoing coverage reflects the case’s significant impact and continued public and legal attention.
Moves Trump Has Made Regarding Corruption: Pam Bondi and Kash Patel
President Trump has named Pam Bondi as U.S. Attorney General and Kash Patel as FBI Director. Bondi is assigned national corruption investigations, and Patel is given “draining the swamp” intelligence. Patel is also assigned “swamp” intelligence. There is no “Assistant Attorney General for Corruption” listed, but there should be one. Patel and Bondi are still here. “Out” is still “pending” and is now post-inaugural Senate votes.
Sanctuary Cities Updates: Chicago
Sanctuary city Chicago has sanctuary country status, and Chicago has sanctuary city status. \In the Chicago area, thousands are reported to be leaving for other states. Chicago has the highest reported national average tax rate, at 10% annually. Plus, Chicago has new corruption scandals. Crime rate and new regulations are included in non-business reports. As of now, 2024 has 50,000 reports and counting. Reports also show states like California and New York, sanctuary states, with the same crime problems.
Mortgage Industry Survival: High Rates and High Inventory
Mortgage rates have increased, and inventory has also increased. The value of homes has also increased due to inflation, and they range from $400k+. 6.85% now, with lenders like Rocket Mortgage closing, and layoffs reported in the 4th Quarter 2024.
Gustan Cho Associates and Subsidiaries: Despite being one of the leaders in government-backed loans and Non-QM, GCA continues to foster new partnerships and collaborations, garnering a 99% approval rating on the most complicated of loans. Subsidiaries such as Capital Lending Network remain persistently on the positive side of the industry curve and are developing new partnerships and products.
Nexa Mortgage Competition: Nexa, more than any of its competitors, has developed partnerships with other brokers, notably surpassing UWM in volume with 20% year-over-year growth, in part due to its technological partnerships. Compared to traditional lenders, brokers like Nexa and GCA offer more competitive rates and greater operational flexibility.
Automotive News
Auto Financing Trends and Predictions.
New-vehicle sales in the U.S. are sluggish, down 5% in 2024. Current financing rates: average auto loan rates are 7.5% according to Bankrate. Predictions for 2026: With falling rates to 6%, sales may increase 10% due to EV adoption; however, with a 60+ days’ supply, inventory challenges remain. Trump’s tariffs will increase the costs of imports.
Trump’s Standing and Fed Chair Powell Updates.
Trump’s standing remains positive, with 55% of the population supporting him in the latest Gallup polls, including a high level of support from GOP members. Patel’s appointment to the FBI faces scrutiny, and Bondi’s to AG faces the same, but they are moving forward. Fed Chair Powell remains calm amid news of a subpoena for him. His term ends in 2026, and he does not appear to be resigning anytime soon.
To learn more about mortgage advice, Gustan Cho Associates provides further information on mortgage advice and 2025 economic forecasts. This report is optimized for SEO with keywords such as “U.S. housing market 2026,” “Jerome Powell news,” and “silver price forecast 2025.” Additional updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
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What’s next for silver spot price in 2026?
In this must-watch episode of T the Silver Stacker, I’m joined by Lior Gantz, the analyst who correctly predicted the silver spot price surge before it happened in 2025.Now Lior is back—and this time he’s sharing his 2026 silver outlook.
We dive deep into:
• Where silver spot price could be headed in 2026
• How global economic pressures are shaping precious metals
• The potential impact of President Donald Trump’s policies on silver and hard assets
• Why silver may continue to outperform—or face new volatility
• What stackers and investors should be watching closely nextLior approaches silver from a global macro perspective, connecting geopolitics, monetary policy, and market psychology. He was right before—will he be right again?
📈 Watch the full conversation and decide for yourself where silver is heading next.
👉 If you stack silver, follow precious metals, or care about the future of real money, this episode is for you.
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