This week major stock market indexes jumped, and bond yields settled as investors have become less uncertain about the economy. Following the April 2nd announcement of tariffs on about 90 countries which panicked investors and markets worldwide, there have been a lot of developments which have calmed the markets. On April 9th, following the initial sell off, President Trump announced a 90-day pause on almost all countries except China. An all-out Trade war followed with China raising their tariffs and Trump raising tariffs to 145% on all goods coming from China. Over the last two weeks, both sides have toned down the rhetoric as economic forecasts for both countries were not positive. On April 12th President Trump exempted smartphones, computer monitors, chips, and various electronics from the 145% tariffs on Chinese goods. Administration officials have spoken about progress in trade negotiations. This has calmed investors from their initial panic. Last week President Trump spoke about firing Fed Chairman Powell, who he referred to as a loser. Investors again became less optimistic, stock markets dropped, and bond yields and interest rates jumped, but on Tuesday President Trump said that “he has no intentions of firing Powell.” On Wednesday Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said, “There was an opportunity for a big deal” on trade between the U.S. and China in his address to the Institute of International Finance. On Friday, President Trump said that he has negotiated 200 trade deals that would be completed within three to four weeks. Investors, world leaders, economists, and consumers are feeling better about the ramifications of the tariffs than they were when the initial announcement was made on April 2nd.
Stocks Markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 40,113.50, up 2.5% from 39,142.23 last week. It is down 10% from 44,544.66 on December 31, 2024. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,525.21, up 4.6% from 5,282.70 last week. The S&P is down 8.7% from 6,040.53 on December 31, 2024. The Nasdaq closed the week at 17,382.94, up 6.7% from 16,286.45 last week. It is down 11.4% from 19,627.44 on December 31, 2024. U.S. Treasury bond yields jump – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.29%, down from 4.34% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.74%, down from 4.80% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields. Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of April 24, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.81%, nearly unchanged from 6.83% last week. The 15-year fixed rate was 5.94%, downfrom 6.03% last week. The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year. U.S. existing-home sales March 2025 – The National Association of Realtorsreported that existing-home sales totaled 4.04-million units on a seasonal annualized rate in March, down 5.9% month-over-month from an annualized rate of 4.26-million units in February. Year-over-year sales slipped 2.4% from an annualized rate of 4.12 million units. The median price for a home sold in the U.S. in March was $403,700, up 2.7% from $392,900 one year ago. There was a 4-month supply of homes for sale in February, up from a 3.2-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 32% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 15% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 26% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 2% of all sales. Have a Great Weekend! |
Weekend Events | April 25 – April 27
The weekend has arrived, and so has your round-up of local fun! From Earth Day celebrations to the LA Times Book Fest and more, we have you covered! Check out what’s happening around town from April 25 through April 27.
Los Angeles Weekend Events | April 25 – April 27
Camp Cleanup: Earth Day
When: April 26
Where: Atwater Village
What: Swap your Saturday scroll for a riverside reboot with L.A. Waterkeeper at North Atwater Park. Spend a feel-good morning scooping litter while soaking up stories about the L.A. River’s past and future, then head home clutching a handmade wildflower seed ball—your personal mission to keep pollinators buzzing.
Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
When: April 26 – April 27
Where: USC Campus
What: Bookworms, assemble: USC’s sunny campus morphs into a bibliophile block party during the two-day Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, where you can browse rows of indie stalls, nab hot-off-the-press signings, and catch star-studded chats with the likes of Chelsea Handler, Jenny Slate, Jon M. Chu, Rachel Kushner, and TJ Klune—plus chef demos from Brooke Williamson and Nicole Rucker. Entry and most talks are free (premium speaker sessions start around $10), so bring the kids for screenings, live tunes, and cultural performances, then toast the written word at Friday’s Los Angeles Times Book Prizes.
Pizza City Fest
When: April 26 – April 27
Where: L.A. Live | DTLA
What: Stretchy-pants alert: L.A. Live transforms into a molten-cheese playground as Pizza Fest rolls in with 40 slice slingers under one roof. Graze your way through Time Out faves like Pizzana, Triple Beam, and Prince Street while gawking at dough-flipping demos and saucy chats with pie pros Roxana Jullapat and Andy Wang—it’s basically the carb Olympics.
Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | April 25 – April 27
Skirball Puppet Festival
When: April 27
Where: Westside
What: Watch the Skirball morph into a living toy box as marionettes, shadow sprites, and full-body giants roam between show-stopping acts from L.A.’s best puppeteers. Jam to live music, craft your own pint-size performers, and soak up classic and brand-new tales in a festival where the strings—and the smiles—never stop.
Pixar Putt
When: February 7 – June 1
Where: Anaheim
What: After stops at D23 and 2nd & PCH, Pixar Putt has found its perfect home at the Pixar Place Hotel, near California Adventure. This 18-hole mini-golf course brings Pixar classics like Toy Story, The Incredibles, and Coco to life. Opening weekend is sold out, but the course runs through June 1.
Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion
When: Until August 31
Where: Westside
What: Explore over 50 of Diane von Furstenberg’s garments in this career-spanning exhibition at the Skirball, including her signature wrap dress. Alongside artwork and fabric swatches, the show highlights her philanthropic work and personal history as the daughter of a Holocaust survivor.
San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | April 25 – April 27
Universal Fan Fest Nights
When: April 25 – May 18
Where: Universal City
What: Grab your phaser, spellbook, or 20-sided die—Universal Studios Hollywood is throwing an after-hours fandom bash that trades screams for pure geek joy. On select nights through May 18, explore worlds from Star Trek to One Piece, catch Yoshi’s first park appearance, and watch the new “Hogwarts Always” castle show while snagging exclusive merch and bites. Costumes that follow the guidelines are not just welcome—they’re encouraged for this multiverse meet-up.
Habitat Restoration Day & Earth Month Celebration
When: April 26
Where: Van Nuys
What: Swap your Saturday stroll for an Earth Day–powered eco-workout with Friends of the L.A. River at Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve. Rip out fire-fueling invaders, pick up watershed wisdom, and leave with dirt-under-your-nails bragging rights—all totally free once you RSVP.
Friends of My Place: A Curated Wine & Music Experience
When: April 26
Where: Who Goes There | 13737 Ventura Boulevard
What: My Place uncorks an easy-going night of boutique pours, vinyl grooves, and “schnacks” to keep your palate happy between sips. Drift from the DJ’s spinning stacks to the tasting table, swirl a glass (or two) you’ll want to take home, and mingle with fellow wine lovers—no dress code, no pretense, just pure vino vibes. Pre-order your wine-and-snack combo to lock in the good times.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | April 25 – April 27
Camarillo Old Town Friday Night Cruise Night
When: April 25
Where: 2222 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010
What: Rev up those engines—the Camarillo Old Town Friday Night Cruise rolls back into town every fourth Friday, March 28 through October 24 (4–7 p.m.). Parade your classic car down Ventura Boulevard to Studio Channel Islands Art Center, where 200+ gleaming rides, live music, vendors, and face-painting await—and don’t forget to grab pre-ordered bites from Old Town eateries to fuel the fun.
28th Annual Neal Taylor Nature Center Fishing Derby
When: April 26 and April 27
Where: Cachuma Lake Recreation Area
What: Join the fun at the 28th Annual Neal Taylor Nature Center Fishing Derby at Cachuma Lake, April 26–27, 2025, featuring competitive fishing categories for crappie, catfish, trout, bass, sunfish, and carp. With an increased prize pool this year, participants can win cash, fishing gear, and more.
Ventura EcoFest
When: April 27
Where: 2060 Cameron St | Ventura
What: Celebrate Earth Day at the Ventura EcoFest, hosted by Ventura Charter School, on Sunday, April 27 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Enjoy live performances, eco-friendly vendors, interactive kids’ activities, delicious local food, and a raffle featuring a $1,000 Disney Cash grand prize. Attendees are encouraged to use sustainable transportation, and proceeds support the school’s sustainability-focused educational programs.
Mortgage Rate Update | April 24, 2025
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of April 24, 2025, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.81%, nearly unchanged from 6.83% last week. The 15-year fixed rate was 5.94%, down from 6.03% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.
From Bluesky to YouTube TV and More! | Tech News
As the week comes to an end, it’s time to round up the leading headlines in the world of tech. From Bluesky to YouTube TV and more, we have you covered with the news to know. Check out the latest tech news in this week’s blog below!
VW and Uber to Launch ID Buzz Robotaxi Fleet in Los Angeles by 2026
Volkswagen will team up with Uber to run autonomous, all-electric ID Buzz minivans as robotaxis in Los Angeles starting in 2026, replacing hour-long car trips with 5–15 minute flights. The seven-seat vans use self-driving hardware and software from VW’s Moia unit, and they’ll begin testing with safety drivers later this year before shifting to full driverless service once regulators approve. Riders will book trips through the Uber app, and VW aims to scale “thousands” of these robotaxis to multiple U.S. cities over the next decade. The partnership builds on VW’s Austin and Hamburg pilots and strengthens Uber’s fast-growing autonomous-vehicle roster.
LinkedIn Verification Badges Now Available for External Sites through Adobe Integration
LinkedIn is extending its free verification badges to the broader web, letting third-party platforms display the “Verified on LinkedIn” stamp instead of building their own tools. Adobe is the first major partner, adding LinkedIn verification to its new Content Authenticity app and the Behance portfolio network. Creators who verify with LinkedIn can show a badge on Behance profiles, and their confirmed identity travels with any work shared on LinkedIn via Adobe’s Content Credentials. LinkedIn says more than 80 million users have already verified details like identity, employer, and education, combating online impersonation. Early adopters of the expanded API also include TrustRadius, G2, and UserTesting, as LinkedIn positions its badge as a cross-platform standard for authenticity.
Adobe Unleashes Firefly Image Model 4 and 4 Ultra, Plus Major Creative Cloud Upgrades
Adobe has released Firefly Image Model 4 for fast, controllable 2K text-to-image generation and Firefly Image Model 4 Ultra for richer detail in complex scenes, both live in the Firefly web app alongside its text-to-video and vector tools. A new Firefly Boards beta brings collaborative mood-boarding to the browser, while an upcoming mobile app extends AI creation to iOS and Android. Users can now experiment with third-party models such as OpenAI’s GPT image, Google Imagen 3, and Veo 2, though Adobe labels its own models “commercially safe.” Illustrator gains fully released generative shape fills and text-to-pattern, and Photoshop adds smarter color tweaks, hair-and-clothing selections, and an upgraded Actions panel that learns a creator’s style—laying groundwork for Adobe’s future AI agent.
Meta Rolls Out Live Translation and Fresh Lens Colors for Ray-Ban Smart Glasses
Meta is pushing a major update to its Ray-Ban smart glasses that makes live, on-device translation in English, French, Italian, and Spanish available in every market; the feature even works offline if you pre-download a language pack. New Skyler frames now pair shiny chalky-gray with sapphire Transitions lenses or shiny black with clear or green tints, giving the cat-eye style more fashion options. Meta is also widening access to visual Meta AI, Instagram calls and DMs, and integration with Spotify, Apple Music, and other audio apps, while promising broader AI support across the EU and upcoming launches in Mexico, India, and the UAE.
YouTube TV Adds DIY Multiview, Redesigns TV App, and Brings 4× Speed to Mobile
YouTube TV will soon let members build their own multiview setups with select non-sports channels, starting in the coming weeks and expanding to more networks over time. The company’s TV app is also getting a Netflix-style redesign that promises simpler navigation, quicker playback, and instant access to comments, channel info, and subscriptions. Finally, YouTube Premium subscribers on iOS and Android are receiving a new 4× playback option, moving beyond the experimental phase first tested in January. Together, these updates aim to keep viewers watching longer on the big screen while giving them finer control on mobile.
Instagram Launches Edits App, a Free CapCut Rival for Pro-Level Video Creation
Instagram just released Edits, a standalone video editing app for iOS and Android that takes direct aim at TikTok’s CapCut. The free tool lets creators manage projects, jot ideas, and track performance while offering advanced features missing from the main Instagram app, such as AI-powered animations, green-screen swaps, and automatic subject cutouts. Mosseri says Edits targets serious creators rather than casual users and will soon add keyframing, more AI options, and collaborative editing.
Bluesky Launches Blue-Check Verification and “Trusted Verifier” Badges
Bluesky is proactively giving “authentic and notable” accounts its new blue-circle check mark. Select organizations, such as The New York Times, can now attain a scalloped “Trusted Verifier” check for their affiliates. The system expands on Bluesky’s domain-based self-verification. Likewise, this update from Bluesky makes it easier for independent journalists and creators to prove their identity and deter impersonation. Bluesky users cannot yet apply for verification. Officials from Bluesky say requests will open after feedback stabilizes the feature, and verification visibility can be toggled off in settings.
The Best Gluten Free Bites Around Town | L.A. Eats
Los Angeles is a haven for diverse culinary experiences, and the city’s gluten-free scene is no exception. Here’s a list of the top 10 restaurants in the city that cater to diverse palates and dietary needs.
Luv2Eat Thai Bistro
Location: 6660 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
This iconic spot offers a wide range of gluten-free options, such as pad ka prao noodles, sour Issan sausage, and spicy-sour tom kha soup, ensuring a flavorful and authentic Thai experience for gluten-sensitive diners.
Crossroads Kitchen
Location: 8284 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
An upscale vegan paradise, Crossroads Kitchen offers gluten-free pizzas, breakfast sandwiches, and even stuffed French toast. Chef Tal Ronnen ensures that 90 percent of the menu caters to dietary needs.
Honey Hi
Location: 1620 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
With a bright and inviting dining room, Honey Hi provides an all-day menu. Highlights include chive-flecked eggs with buckwheat sourdough, caramelized fennel and onion breakfast sandwich, and a smoky-sweet potato hash breakfast bowl.
Birdie G’s
Location: 2421 Michigan Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90404
This sleek indoor-outdoor restaurant in Santa Monica offers a gluten-free-friendly menu that doesn’t sacrifice creativity. Must-try dishes include rice flour-battered king trumpet mushrooms and crispy pickle fried chicken.
Cinque Terre West Osteria
Location: 970 Monument St #110, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Owned by a husband and wife team, this Italian restaurant offers amazing gluten-free pizzas and pasta. Don’t miss their pasta with rock shrimp and zucchini blossom or the Tartufo pie with goat cheese and shaved black truffle.
Suncafe Organic
Location: 10820 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604
A perfect spot for a gluten-free brunch near Universal Studios, Suncafe Organic serves a range of organic and dairy-free comfort food.
Lucifers Pizza
Location: 11266 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604
With multiple locations, Lucifers Pizza allows diners to choose from traditional, gluten-free, and cauliflower crusts for any pie. Their pepperoni pizza is a must-try.
Rosti Tuscan Kitchen
Location: 23663 Calabasas Rd, Calabasas, CA 91302
Offering a dedicated gluten-free menu, Rosti Tuscan Kitchen serves sandwiches on thin bread and customizable pizzas, with standout dishes like the spaghetti di mare.
Nobu Malibu
Location: 22706 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
This high-end Japanese restaurant offers numerous gluten-free options, including their popular miso-glazed black cod. Tamari is always available, making it a perfect destination for gluten-sensitive diners.
With these diverse and delicious options, Los Angeles proves that it’s a city that caters to everyone’s tastes and dietary needs. Bon appétit!
Spring/Summer 2025 Rooftop & Beach Cinema | Out & About
Los Angeles turns movie‑going into a bona‑fide lifestyle. Nowhere is that more evident than on its sky‑high (and seaside) screens. As spring melts into summer, rooftop cinema Los Angeles season arrives—pairing cult classics and first‑run favorites with cushioned loungers, handcrafted cocktails, and jaw‑dropping backdrops. Below, we compare three of 2025’s most stylish open‑air venues: Rooftop Cinema Club Downtown, Level 8 Golden Hour Movie Nights at the Moxy/AC Hotel tower, and the Santa Monica Pier’s Front Porch Cinema beach screenings. Use this guide to pick the perfect setting for date night, girls’ night, or a family film under the stars.
Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA — Deck‑Chair Luxury in the Sky
Address: 888 S. Olive St., Downtown LA
Season: Mid‑March – October, nightly; double features on weekends
Tickets: $34.50 – $50.60 per person (single Lounge Seat or two‑person Love Seat)
Perks: Wireless headphones • Full cocktail bar • Skyline selfies
Perched four stories above South Park, Rooftop Cinema Club offers the quintessential downtown movie night. Each ticket scores you a cushioned deck chair with an adjustable headrest, plus noise‑isolating headphones that pipe crisp audio straight to your ears—no honking traffic to break the spell. Show up for golden hour, order a grapefruit‑mezcal Paloma or local craft beer via QR code, and watch the sunset paint the skyline. On‑site concessions elevate movie snacking with truffle popcorn, loaded nachos, and vegan candy options. Blankets are available for purchase (highly recommended for breezy evenings). It’s 21+ after 6 p.m., making the vibe decidedly date‑night friendly.
Level 8 Golden Hour Movie Nights — Poolside Glam Meets Carnival Chic
Address: 1254 S. Figueroa St., Moxy/AC Hotel Rooftop
Season: Weekly Mondays & Wednesdays, April – September
Tickets: GA $20 (standing or bar seating) • Premium Lounger $45 • Pool Cabana Packages $250 – $375 (4‑8 guests)
Perks: Table‑side craft cocktails • Three‑course dinner add‑ons • 360° DTLA views
Eight stories up, Level 8 transforms its tropical pool deck into a cinematic playground. Reserve a plush cabana outfitted with sectional sofas and throw pillows, or opt for a padded lounger beside the water. Staff deliver tiki‑style cocktails—think passion‑fruit margaritas or guava spritzes—straight to your seat; some nights feature a prix‑fixe three‑course dinner, turning the experience into a full culinary affair. Expect live DJs, fire dancers, or samba drummers warming up the crowd before the projector rolls. The LED screen is bright enough to compete with downtown’s neon glow, while the surrounding high‑rises provide a dazzling urban frame.
Melrose Rooftop Theatre – Bean‑Bag Chic Above West Hollywood
Address: 603 N. La Cienega Blvd., West Hollywood
Season: February – November, five nights a week (7:30 p.m. start)
Tickets:
- Standard Bean‑Bag Seat: from $19 (movie + popcorn)
- Dinner‑and‑Movie for Two: $37 pp (VIP entry, three‑course meal at EP & LP’s Heartbreak Saloon plus reserved seats)
Perched atop the trendy EP & LP complex, Melrose Rooftop Theatre (MRT) serves up an all‑VIP bean‑bag seating plan—every guest sinks into an oversized cushion with a blanket and wireless headphones for private audio. Before the show, grab Thai‑style crispy tofu, karaage chicken sliders, or lychee martinis on the terrace bar; dinner‑package guests start with a craft cocktail and a shareable dessert platter indoors. Expect a rotating roster of cult classics and 2020s crowd‑pleasers (La La Land, Clueless, The Notebook) against a postcard‑perfect view of the Hollywood Hills. Because MRT caps capacity at about 100 guests, the vibe feels intimate—even Instagram‐ready—without sacrificing comfort. It’s 21+ only, so plan a sitter if you’re making it a parents’ night out.
Street Food Cinema – Picnic‑Style Screenings Across L.A.
Locations: Rotates among Griffith Park, Autry Museum, Grand Hope Park & more
Season: Late April – October; 50+ events city‑wide
Tickets: GA $22 advance • Reserved seating upgrades available
Billing itself as “L.A.’s movable cinema feast,” Street Food Cinema (SFC) sets up giant screens on lawn venues, pairs each film with top food trucks, themed cocktails, live bands, and trivia, and welcomes kids + dogs. Bring your own blanket or low chair; doors open around 5:30 p.m., bands play at 6:45, and the movie rolls at dusk. Upcoming 2025 slate highlights include Wicked at the Autry and Toy Story’s 30th anniversary.
Choosing Your Perfect Rooftop (or Seaside) Cinema
- For plush personal seating and a classic movie‑theater vibe: Book a Lounge Seat at Rooftop Cinema Club DTLA.
- For a full send–cocktails, cabanas, and live entertainment: Splurge on a cabana at Level 8 Golden Hour.
- For a laid‑back, family‑friendly outing with ocean breezes: Bring a blanket to Front Porch Cinema and enjoy the show for free.
With these three venues in rotation, the rooftop cinema Los Angeles season promises to bring the fun! Don’t miss an immersive taste of the city’s signature glamour, from skyscraper vistas to seaside serenity. Grab your tickets—or your picnic blanket—and let the credits roll beneath the stars.
Maintaining Sustainable Luxury | Home Tips
With Earth Day on April 22, many homeowners are looking for ways to align an upscale lifestyle with environmental stewardship. Fortunately, today’s high‑end market is filled with sustainable luxury home tips that marry cutting‑edge design with meaningful eco‑impact. From rooftop solar arrays that disappear into the architecture to lush, organic landscaping that supports local biodiversity, here are smart, stylish strategies to help you reduce your carbon footprint—without sacrificing sophistication.
1. Solar Power Goes Sophisticated
Luxury buyers no longer settle for bulky panels that disrupt curb appeal. Architectural photovoltaic (PV) tiles and sleek black‑on‑black modules integrate seamlessly with slate or metal roofing. Pair your array with a whole‑home battery system—such as the LG Chem RESU—to store excess daytime energy for evening use or emergency backup. The result? A virtually silent, self‑contained power plant that cuts utility bills while showcasing forward‑thinking design.
Pro Tip: Work with NABCEP‑certified installers who can optimize panel placement and wire management so your system complements (rather than competes with) the aesthetic of your roofline.
2. Intelligent Energy Management
Solar shines brightest when matched with a smart home hub. Platforms like Savant, Crestron, and Control4 now feature integrated energy dashboards that display real‑time production and consumption data. Automated scenes can dim lighting, adjust motorized shades, and tweak HVAC set points when sensors detect no one is in the room, saving energy effortlessly. High‑efficiency heat‑pump HVAC systems (or geothermal loops, where feasible) round out a zero‑fossil‑fuel approach to climate control.
3. Build (and Seal) a Better Envelope
Energy loss through windows and walls can negate the benefits of renewables. Triple‑pane, low‑E glass framed in thermally broken aluminum or FSC‑certified wood trims heat transfer without compromising floor‑to‑ceiling views. Insulate walls and attics with eco‑friendly cellulose or mineral wool; both offer excellent R‑values and sound attenuation. For new construction, consider insulated concrete forms (ICFs) or structural insulated panels (SIPs) to achieve near‑passive‑house airtightness—ideal for quieter, healthier interiors.
4. Water Conservation in High Style
Southern California’s drought cycles make water a precious resource. Harvest rainwater with hidden underground cisterns that feed drip irrigation lines. Indoors, install WaterSense‑rated fixtures, dual‑flush toilets, and ultra‑efficient dishwashers. For pools and spas, solar thermal heaters and automatic covers limit evaporation while keeping the water comfortably warm.
5. Organic Landscaping & Biophilic Bliss
Swap thirsty lawns for native grasses, succulents, and Mediterranean shrubs that thrive on minimal irrigation. An organic landscaping plan eliminates synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, improving soil health and supporting pollinators. Integrate edible gardens—think raised planter beds for herbs and heirloom tomatoes—to shorten the distance from farm to table. For a resort‑grade flourish, add a green roof over a low‑slope garage or pool house: it insulates the structure, absorbs stormwater runoff, and provides a verdant visual from second‑story windows.
6. Sustainable Materials & Finishes
The luxe market now boasts reclaimed European oak floors, recycled‑glass terrazzo countertops, and bamboo cabinetry with low‑VOC finishes. Opt for marble‑look porcelain slabs to capture the grandeur of natural stone without the environmental cost of quarrying. When sourcing area rugs, look for hand‑knotted pieces dyed with plant‑based pigments—durable, chemical‑free, and artisan‑made.
7. Wellness‑Forward Indoor Air
True luxury lives where comfort meets health. Specify zero‑formaldehyde MDF for built‑ins, and finish walls with mineral‑based paints that naturally regulate humidity. Whole‑house ERV (energy‑recovery ventilation) systems exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air, crucial in airtight homes, and filter out allergens. Add a central humidifier that adjusts levels automatically, preventing dry skin and protecting valuable wood furnishings.
8. Curated Eco‑Luxe Furnishings
High‑end brands are embracing circular design. Look for sofas stuffed with natural latex and wool rather than petroleum‑based foam, and pieces upholstered in OEKO‑TEX‑certified fabrics. Vintage and antique finds not only bring character but extend the life cycle of quality craftsmanship—arguably the greenest purchase you can make.
Embracing these sustainable luxury
Celebrate Earth Day this week by choosing to be sustainable every day. From invisible solar tiles to organic gardens, eco‑luxe living proves that sustainability and sophistication can—and should—go hand in hand.
Economic Update | Week Ending April 19, 2025
Stocks Markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 39,142.23, down 2.7% from 40,212.71 last week. It is down 12.1% from 44,544.66 on December 31, 2024. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,282.70, down 1.3% from 5,353.26 last week. The S&P is down 12.5% from 6,040.53 on December 31, 2024. The Nasdaq closed the week at 16,286.45, down 2.6% from 16,724.46 last week. It is down 17% from 19,627.44 on December 31, 2024.
U.S. Treasury bond yields jumped – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.34%, down from 4.48% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.80%, down from 4.85% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields. Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of April 17, 2025, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.83%, upfrom 6.62% last week. The 15-year fixed rate was 6.03%, up from 5.82% last week. The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year. Home sales figures for March were released by the California Association of Real Estate this week. The National Association of Realtors will release March figures next week. California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 277,030 on an annualized basis in March, up 4.9% year-over-year from a revised 264,200 homes sold on an annualized basis. The statewide median price paid for a home was $884,370 in March, up 3% from $854,370 one year ago. There was a 3.5-month supply of homes for sale in January, up from a 2.6-month supply of homes for sale last March. The graph below lists home sales data by county in Southern California. Have a Great Weekend! |
Mortgage Rate Update | April 17, 2025
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of April 17, 2025, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.83%, up from 6.62% last week. The 15-year fixed rate was 6.03%, up from 5.82% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Freddie Mac was chartered by Congress in 1970 to keep money flowing to mortgage lenders in support of homeownership and rental housing. Their mandate is to provide liquidity, stability, and affordability to the U.S.
Weekend Events | April 18 – April 20
Easter weekend is here and so are the top local events in your neighborhood. From springtime fun to country music roller nights and more, there’s plenty of fun around town. Check out what’s happening around town from April 18 through April 20.
Los Angeles Weekend Events | April 18 – April 20
Wild for the Planet at the L.A. Zoo
When: April 18 – April 20
Where: Griffith Park
What: Celebrate Earth Day at the L.A. Zoo with a buzzworthy lineup: sample sweet honey flights, drop off old gadgets for recycling, and catch conservation chats straight from the zookeepers. Wander an eco‑expo featuring CicLAvia, Malibu Creek Ecosystem Restoration Project, and Orangutan Conservancy, while little ones dive into storytimes, hands‑on learning stations, hip‑hop jams, and Easter‑ready photo ops with Big Bunny (for a fee).
Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Easy Mornings
When: April 19
Where: Downtown LA
What: Grand Park turns your Saturday into pure chill with two free, feel‑good days packed with yoga flows, crafty corners, lawn games, live beats, and nature‑inspired fun—plus a pup‑adoption fair for instant tail wags. Catch whimsical puppet shows from Bob Baker Marionette Theater, then graze Smorgasburg’s pop‑up market for picnic‑perfect bites and indie wares as you reset mind, body, and soul after the recent wildfires.
First Fridays at the Natural History Museum
When: Until June 6
Where: Natural History Museum | Los Angeles
What: Experience a unique night at the Natural History Museum’s First Fridays, where music, science, and art collide. From March to June, enjoy KCRW-curated DJs, live performances, guided tours, and interactive exhibits after hours. This week’s “Healing Sounds” edition features performances by VÉRITÉ and Kelcey Ayer, plus immersive sound baths in the Sensory Lounge.
Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | April 18 – April 20
Keep It Green, Keep It Clean Earth Day Celebration
When: April 19
Where: Manhattan Beach
What: Make waves this Earth Day at the tiny-but-mighty aquarium on the Manhattan Beach Pier, where a free family fest is brimming with ocean‑loving fun. Scan the horizon for dolphins, cheer on plankton races, and catch shark‑savvy talks between fish‑feeding frenzies, then dive into crafts, games, face painting, and raffles for a splashy finish.
Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival
When: April 21
Where: Anaheim
What: Disney California Adventure cranks up the joy with its nearly two‑month Food & Wine Festival, where eight themed marketplaces—garlic galore, pepper palooza, local beer and wine, and more—turn the park into one giant tasting tour. Graze your way across the culinary circuit, then slip onto the limited‑return Soarin’ Over California to let those flavors really take flight before your next round.
Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion
When: Until August 31
Where: The Skirball Cultural Center
What: Explore over 50 of Diane von Furstenberg’s garments in this career-spanning exhibition at the Skirball, including her signature wrap dress. Alongside artwork and fabric swatches, the show highlights her philanthropic work and personal history as the daughter of a Holocaust survivor.
San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | April 18 – April 20
Superman Day at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
When: April 18
Where: Burbank
What: It’s a bird! it’s a plane! It’s…a daylong celebration of Superman on the Warner Bros. lot! The studio is offering a special themed tour for one day only to mark Superman’s debut in Action Comics #1 back in 1938 and to hype fans up for the DC Universe’s new incarnation of the Man of Steel this summer. From 10am to 5pm, comic book artists Scott Koblish, Dustin Nguyen and Jon Bogdanove will be on hand to chat with fans in the Welcome Center, where Superman-themed fine art pieces will be for sale. At 5pm, a one-hour studio tour focused on the DC Universe will kick off, followed by a screening of the seminal superhero film—1978’s Christopher Reeve–starring Superman—introduced by TCM host Ben Mankiewicz.
4th Annual Easter Egg Hunt
When: April 20
Where: Love Always Sanctuary | Sun Valley
What: Hop over to Love Always Sanctuary for a vegan‑friendly Easter egg hunt where 70+ rescued farm animals graze just beyond your basket. Gates open at noon, the hunt blasts off at 1 p.m. with treat bags for every kid (and bonus gifts for the first 50), plus Impossible‑dog meal deals that keep you fueled while every dollar supports the critters. Bring your crew—and your own basket—for an egg‑straordinary afternoon of animal cuddles, live entertainment, and feel‑good spring vibes.
Stagecoach Presents Country Music Skate Night
When: April 12
Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale
What: Dust off those skates and cowboy hats for a toe‑tappin’ night where the rink turns honky‑tonk! Glide to a mix of classic twang and modern country bangers while showing off your best boot‑scootin’ moves. Round up your crew, lace up, and let the neon lights and country beats keep you rollin’ ‘til last call.
Conejo Valley Weekend Events | April 18 – April 20
Arbor Earth Day Celebration
When: April 19
Where: Thousand Oaks Community Center | 2525 N Moorpark Rd, Thousand Oaks
What: Celebrate Mother Nature and mighty oaks in one swoop at Thousand Oaks’ Arbor Earth Day bash on April 19 (10 a.m.–2 p.m.) at Community Center Park. Peek under the hoods of shiny EVs, pick up drought‑smart garden tricks, cruise a bike‑safety course (or donate a spare ride), and snag freebies like compost, plants, helmets, and raffle swag while live bands keep the groove. Kid‑friendly crafts, bounce houses, and green‑thumb workshops make it the ultimate eco party for the whole crew.
Easter Eggstravaganza Event
When: April 19
Where: 1605 Burnley St | Camarillo
What: Hop over to Camarillo’s Community Center Park on Saturday, April 19 (10 a.m.–1 p.m.) for Pleasant Valley’s free Easter Eggstravaganza, bursting with crafts, live tunes, and bunny photo ops. Browse craft vendors, graze the food‑truck lineup, and let the kiddos hunt eggs and play to their heart’s content—it’s the perfect spring fling for the whole family.
City of Moorpark Easter Egg Hunt
When: April 19
Where: 4550 Tierra Rejada Road | Moorpark
What: Ready, set, scramble—Moorpark’s Arroyo Vista Community Park transforms into an egg‑hunting playground on April 19 (10 a.m.–1 p.m.) for the city’s wristband‑only Easter bash. Snag advance bands at the rec center for $10–$13 (or $16 day‑of, if any remain) to score one timed hunt plus unlimited carnival games, crafts, and petting‑zoo play. Bring your favorite basket, trade your egg haul for prizes, and let the kiddos burn off that spring‑time energy in style.