Economic Update | Week Ending September 7, 2024

U.S. hiring stabilized in August after dropping in July – The Department of Labor and Statistics reported that 143,000 new jobs were added in August. That was an increase from a revised 89,000 jobs added in July, yet below economists’ expectations of 165,000 new jobs. The unemployment rate ticked down 4.2% in August from 4.3% in July which marked its highest level since October 2021. Average hourly wages increased 3.8% year-over-year in August, up from a 3.6% annual increase in July. Stock markets dropped on fears that as the economy is heading toward a slowdown, which it needs to do to control inflation, spending will drop, and profits will decrease. Economists widely speculated that with job growth higher than in July, wages increasing at a higher rate, and the unemployment rate stabilizing, there was enough strength in the report for the Fed to do a .25% rate drop rather than a .50% rate drop at their meeting next week.

Stock markets – Stock markets dropped sharply this week. While all indexes were down, the tech-heavy Nasdaq had its worst week since 2022, dropping over 6%. Although tech stocks fared the worst, the sell-off was broad-based with nearly all sectors falling as investors feel that the slowing job market will lead to some sort of slowdown in the economy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 40,345.42, down 2.9% from 41,563.08 last week. It is up 10.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 5,408.42, down 4.2% from 5,648.40 last week. The S&P is up 18.4% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 16,690.83 down 6.4% from 17,713.63 last week. It is up 18% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields dropped sharply this week – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 3.72%, down from 3.91% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.03%, down from 4.20% 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 September 5, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35%, unchanged from 6.35% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.47%, down from 5.51% 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.

Have a great weekend!

Mortgage Rate Update | September 5, 2024

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 September 5, 2024, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35%, unchanged from 6.35% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.47%, down from 5.51% 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 | September 6 – September 8

 Dive into the weekend’s top events! From Hamilton at the Pantages to Day of the Dog, and more, we have you covered for fun. Check out what’s happening in your neighborhood from September 6 through September 8!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | September 6 – September 8

Hamilton

When: Until October 18

Where: The Pantages | Hollywood

What: The touring production of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hit musical Hamilton has returned to the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. With its dynamic blend of hip-hop, history, and heartfelt performances, this cultural phenomenon continues to captivate audiences in Los Angeles.

Future Imaginaries: Indigenous Art, Fashion, Technology

When: Until June 21

Where: Griffith Park

What: Over 50 works at the Autry Museum highlight how Indigenous artists envision alternative futures in response to ongoing colonial trauma. The exhibit features surreal spacescapes by Wendy Red Star, pop culture critiques from Andy Everson, and a site-specific space odyssey by Virgil Ortiz.

Metro Art Presents ‘The Last Repair Shop’

When: September 7

Where: Downtown

What: Enjoy a screening at Union Station of a documentary short that explores an instrument repair shop serving L.A.’s public school students. The event includes live orchestral performances and a conversation with members of the cast.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | September 6 – September 8

Santa Monica Pier’s 115th Birthday Celebration

When: September 6

Where: Santa Monica Pier

What: The iconic Santa Monica Pier is celebrating its impressive 115th anniversary. To mark the occasion, the Route 66 terminus is hosting a free party on Friday, September 6, featuring a screening of Barbie, birthday cake and ice cream, live music, face painting, and fun games.

Day of the Dog

When: September 7

Where: Main Street | Santa Monica

What: While many Angelenos bring their dogs to street fairs, how about an event made just for your pup? Enter Day of the Dog, a free festival on Main Street in Santa Monica (between Ocean Park Boulevard and Strand Avenue), featuring 100 pet-centric vendors and a dozen dog-friendly attractions. Highlights include a ball pit, foam party, surf machine, pool party, photo ops, races, fashion shows, and even yoga with adoptable dogs.

Americana in the Park

When: Until September 29

Where: Santa Monica

What: While it may not be the beachfront bash of Twilight on the Pier, Santa Monica’s newest free concert series brings outdoor music to Gandara Park. Partnering with the beloved McCabe’s Guitar Shop, the city will host Sunday afternoon shows this September, featuring performances that delve into the roots of Americana, right next to Bergamot Station and the E Line.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | September 6 – September 8

Filipino California: Art and the Filipino Diaspora

When: April 20 – September 8  

Where: Glendale 

What: Explore the works of seven contemporary artists—Eliseo Art Silva, Allison Hueman, Anthony Francisco, Maryrose Cobarrubias Mendoza, Christine Morla, Maria Villote, and Junn Roca—at the Forest Lawn Museum. Their pieces delve into Filipino culture and the Filipino-American experience.

Skate Oddity presents: Beetleskate

When: September 7

Where: La Kings Burbank Sports Center | Burbank

What: Beetlejuice and Tim Burton-inspired photo ops, skating, and music await! Enjoy tunes from Beetlejuice and Danny Elfman, along with DJ sets featuring goth and dark ’80s hits!

2024 Silents Under the Stars

When: September 7

Where: William S. Hart Park – Hart Hall | Santa Clarita 

What: “Silents Under the Stars” returns for a special evening benefiting Friends of Hart Park! This unique event features two silent films (a full-length and a short), tasty food, live musical accompaniment, and captivating insights from film historian EJ Stephens. Enjoy a silent auction and a special display of Hart family artifacts presented by the SCV Historical Society.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | September 6 – September 8

Summer Season at Theatricum Botanicum

When: Until October 20

Where: Topanga

What: For over 50 years, this iconic venue has attracted theater enthusiasts to its enchanting open-air stage for captivating productions. Nestled in Topanga Canyon, the 299-seat amphitheater welcomes audiences of all ages with a diverse array of plays, from Shakespearean classics to folktales. This season’s highlights include William Shakespeare’s ‘The Winter’s Tale’ and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, as well as ‘Wendy’s Peter Pan’, *Tartuffe: Born Again’, and ‘The Hispanic/Latino/Latina/Latinx/Latine Vote’.

Hueneme Beach Festival

When: September 7 and September 8 

Where: 550 E Surfside Dr, Port Hueneme

What: The event at Hueneme Beach Park will feature live music on two stages, delicious food, kids’ activities, carnival rides, vendors, a chalk art exhibition, and the popular sand sculpture contest. Located at 550 E. Surfside Dr., Port Hueneme, the event offers free admission with $10 parking (or free park and ride from Hueneme Community Center and Bard Elementary School).

City of Camarillo End of Summer Block Party

When: September 7 

Where: Constitution Park, Paseo Camarillo

What: The City of Camarillo’s 60th anniversary will be celebrated with an End of Summer Block Party on Saturday, September 7, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Constitution Park. There will be live performances on stage by Mariachi Camarillo, Ori Tahiti Ventura County, and Bad Habit. Visit cityofcamarillo.org/camarillo60 for additional information.

From Bang and Olufson to Instagram and More! | Tech News

As the week comes to a close, it’s time to wrap up the leading headlines from across the tech world. From Bang & Olufson to Instagram and more, we have you covered! Check out your tech news read below!

Bang & Olufsen Unveils $1,549 Beoplay H100 Headphones

Bang & Olufsen has introduced its new Beoplay H100 headphones, priced at $1,549. The new Bang & Olufsen headphones surpass the cost of the H95 model. Justifying the premium, the H100 features improved noise-cancellation, enhanced repairability, and luxurious materials like lambskin leather and scratch-resistant glass. With easily replaceable components, including ear pads, batteries, and drivers, the Bang & Olufsen H100 aims for longevity. Equipped with 40mm titanium drivers, Dolby Atmos support, and 10 microphones for superior noise-cancellation, they offer 32 hours of battery life. Available in three colors, the Bang & Olufsen H100 delivers high-resolution sound and premium craftsmanship.

Instagram Adds Comments to Stories Feature

Instagram now allows users to leave public comments on Stories, a shift from the previous private message-only replies. Comments will be visible to anyone who can view the Story, with privacy settings in place—only followed accounts can comment on private Stories, and for public accounts, comments are limited to followed users. Comments, like Stories, will disappear after 24 hours unless saved as a highlight. This addition is part of Instagram’s broader push to increase engagement, alongside other recent features like disappearing Notes and more prominent floating hearts on posts.

Microsoft to Host “Wave 2” Copilot Event in September

Microsoft will hold a special “Wave 2” Copilot event on September 16th, led by CEO Satya Nadella and VP Jared Spataro, to showcase the next phase of Copilot innovation. Focused on the business side of its AI offerings, the event will introduce new features for Microsoft 365 Copilot and potentially unveil updates for Copilot Pro, its consumer subscription. In addition to rebranding efforts, Microsoft aims to attract more businesses to its $30 per user per month Copilot subscription by enhancing AI tools across Office apps.

WPC Unveils Wireless Power Standard for Kitchen Appliances

The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) has finalized the specifications for the Ki wireless power transfer standard, allowing smaller kitchen appliances like toasters and blenders to operate cord-free. Using electromagnetic induction, Ki can transmit up to 2,200W of power, far more than Qi chargers used for phones. Ki transmitters can be integrated into countertops and cooktops, offering a seamless, clutter-free kitchen experience. While consumer products are not available yet, appliance makers can begin submitting Ki-compatible devices for certification by year-end.

The Jevons Paradox and the Future of Autonomous Vehicles

The future of self-driving cars is looking brighter as industry leaders like Cruise, Waymo, and Tesla push forward with advancements. Cruise has rebooted under new management. Waymo is expanding across the Bay Area and Los Angeles. Tesla promises an upcoming robotaxi service. Advocates highlight the potential for autonomous vehicles to make roads safer and reduce emissions. Likewise, this presents an exciting opportunity for cleaner, more efficient transportation in the future.

The Top Pasta Spots | L.A. Eats

Los Angeles is home to some of the best Italian dining spots, offering authentic pasta dishes that transport you straight to Italy. Whether you crave classic spaghetti or something more adventurous, these restaurants deliver delicious, memorable meals. Explore this guide to find your next favorite pasta eatery in LA.

Sirena

Location: 1415 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, California 90401

Nestled on a bougainvillea-draped terrace just steps from the shimmering Pacific, Sirena offers a memorable dining experience with some of LA’s finest pasta dishes, crafted under the expertise of former Mozza chef David Almany. Indulge in dishes like linguine vongole, bucatini all’amatriciana, or pappardelle ragu Bolognese. Enhance your meal with pastry chef Thessa Diadem’s hot focaccia, perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce. Be sure to leave room for an array of delectable desserts.

La Dolce Vita

Location: 9785 Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Though LA isn’t typically known for its red sauce joints, the revived La Dolce Vita in Beverly Hills is here to challenge that notion. The menu showcases five distinct pastas, including a classic spaghetti and meatballs, a delightful tagliatelle vongole bursting with clams and parsley, and a creamy bucatini al limoni. Complement your pasta with a chilled seafood salad and a crisp martini for an unforgettable dining experience.

Funke

Location: 9388 S Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Chef Evan Funke’s namesake restaurant in Beverly Hills has quickly become the epicenter of pasta in Los Angeles. This two-story glass-and-steel establishment churns out a dozen different pasta shapes, with six formed by hand and six extruded. Alongside beloved dishes from Funke’s other ventures (Mother Wolf and Felix), the restaurant introduces new favorites like the Piemontese classic, agnolotti del plin, ensuring every pasta lover leaves satisfied.

Pasta Sisters

Location: 3280 Helms Ave, Culver City, CA 90232

Pasta Sisters is a haven for pasta aficionados, offering both freshly made pasta to take home and composed plates ready to enjoy. Choose from an array of options like spaghetti, tagliatelle, pappardelle, and lasagna sheets. The menu also features specialty dishes, including pasta with bottarga or porcini mushrooms, satisfying every craving for authentic Italian flavors.

Crossroads

Location: 8284 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046 | 4776 Commons Way Suite A, Calabasas, CA 91302

Chef Tal Ronnen’s Crossroads continues to impress a decade after opening in WeHo, offering a refined dining experience without overt vegan cues. Settle into a cozy, candle-lit booth, sip on a carefully crafted cocktail, and savor the restaurant’s signature pastas. Highlights include the Impossible “meat” Bolognese with house-made tagliatelle and a seasonal ravioli filled with summer corn, all complemented by a slightly spicy tomato “butter” sauce.

Angelini Osteria

Location: 7313 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Angelini Osteria on Beverly Boulevard is a legendary destination for pasta lovers, thanks to chef Gino Angelini’s masterful creations. The menu features standout dishes like the signature lemon cream pasta, linguine with sea urchin, and lasagna topped with fried basil. This cozy osteria is a must-visit for those seeking authentic, expertly crafted Italian cuisine.

Antico Nuovo

Location: 4653 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004

At chef Chad Colby’s Antico Nuovo, an ideal meal begins with piping hot focaccia and continues with as many pasta dishes as your table can manage. The menu, which changes with the seasons, features delicate rabbit-filled parcels (plin dell’ alta langa) and the classic pappardelle with beef cheek and veal tongue ragu. For a truly immersive experience, snag a seat along the open kitchen and watch the magic unfold.

Spina

Location: 3193 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90039

Spina in Atwater Village is a pasta lover’s paradise, with chef Pablo Cruz crafting dishes using noodles from Mani In Pasta, a renowned handmade pasta company. The menu includes a half-dozen primi, ranging from classics like cacio e pepe to ricotta-stuffed ravioli with butter and sage. For those seeking indulgence, the tonnarelli al tartufo e salsiccia, priced at nearly $40, is a must-try.

La Cava

Location: 13565 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

La Cava is celebrated for its impeccable Italian cuisine, making it one of the top Italian restaurants not just in the San Fernando Valley, but in all of Southern California. The pasta, described as “better than homemade,” and the delicately flavored pizza receive high praise from patrons. With its authentic Tuscan atmosphere, enhanced by warm, crispy bread drizzled with olive oil and herbs, La Cava offers an experience that transports diners straight to Italy. The owner’s Italian heritage and commitment to excellence ensure that every dish is prepared with the utmost care.

Gravina Malibu

Location: 28925 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265

Gravina Malibu is a culinary gem offering authentic Italian cuisine in a picturesque setting near Point Dume. This family-run restaurant is lauded for its flavorful, homemade pastas and expertly prepared dishes like sea bass and lobster ravioli. The intimate ambiance, coupled with outstanding service, makes it a favorite for date nights and post-beach dinners alike. Patrons frequently return for the delicious food and the genuine Italian hospitality.

Spruzzo

Location: 538 Palisades Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90272-2844

Spruzzo in Pacific Palisades stands out in a neighborhood filled with Italian eateries, going beyond traditional fare. The menu features highly praised dishes like Vodka Rigatoni and seafood pasta. With its comfortable patio and well-crafted cocktails, Spruzzo, owned by the team behind the successful Malibu location, offers a high standard of dining at reasonable prices, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

Your CA National Park Guide | Out & About

Los Angeles is known for its bustling city life, but just a few hours away, nature enthusiasts can find some of the most stunning national parks in the country. These parks offer a perfect escape from the urban sprawl, each with unique landscapes, rich histories, and opportunities for adventure. Here’s a national park guide to the best parks within driving distance from Los Angeles.

1. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from Los Angeles: 2 hours

Fun Fact: Joshua Tree is home to the unique Joshua Tree plant, which isn’t a tree at all but a type of yucca.

Joshua Tree National Park is where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, creating a surreal landscape dotted with the park’s namesake Joshua Trees, rugged rock formations, and stark desert scenery. The park is a paradise for rock climbers, stargazers, and hikers alike. Popular spots include Hidden Valley, a haven for climbers, and Keys View, where visitors can take in panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and even spot Mount San Jacinto on a clear day. Don’t miss the Cholla Cactus Garden, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the cacti seem to glow with the changing light.

2. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Distance from Los Angeles: 4 hours

Fun Fact: Sequoia National Park is home to the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume.

These two adjacent parks offer a combined experience of towering sequoias, deep canyons, and rugged mountains. Sequoia National Park is famous for its giant sequoia trees. This includes the General Sherman Tree, which stands over 275 feet tall and is estimated to be around 2,200 years old. Kings Canyon, often less crowded, boasts one of the deepest canyons in North America, with depths plunging up to 8,200 feet. The parks also offer scenic drives, including the Generals Highway, and beautiful hiking trails like the Congress Trail, which winds through some of the largest trees in the world.

3. Channel Islands National Park

Distance from Los Angeles: 2 hours (plus a ferry ride)

Fun Fact: The Channel Islands are often called the “Galapagos of North America” due to their unique species.

Accessible by ferry from Ventura, Channel Islands National Park is a collection of five islands. The national park islands each offer a unique slice of untouched California beauty. The park is a sanctuary for wildlife, including the island fox, a species found only here. Visitors can explore sea caves by kayak, hike to breathtaking viewpoints, and more. The isolation of the islands has led to a high level of endemism, with many species found nowhere else on Earth.

4. Death Valley National Park

Distance from Los Angeles: 3.5 hours

Fun Fact: Death Valley is the hottest place on Earth, with a record temperature of 134°F (56.7°C) recorded in 1913.

Death Valley National Park is a land of extremes. The national park features the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin, at 282 feet below sea level. Despite its name, Death Valley is teeming with life, especially after rare desert rains that bring wildflower blooms. Must-see spots include the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, the colorful Artist’s Palette, and more. The park is also a designated Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent spot for stargazing.

September Home Maintenance | Home Tips

As we enter September, the vibrant days of summer gradually give way to the cooler months. Likewise, it’s crucial for homeowners to take proactive steps in preparing their homes for the seasonal shift. Proper maintenance not only ensures your luxury home remains in pristine condition but also helps avoid costly repairs down the line. Here, we’ll delve into essential preventative September maintenance tasks that should be on your checklist as you get ready for the cooler months.

1. September HVAC System Checks: Keep Your Home Warm and Cozy

Your HVAC system is the heart of your home’s comfort during the colder months. To ensure it operates efficiently and reliably, schedule a professional inspection and maintenance service before the temperatures drop. A certified technician will check for any issues, clean the system, and replace filters, ensuring your home stays warm without sudden breakdowns. Additionally, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat, which can optimize energy use and maintain your desired temperature settings, keeping your luxury home comfortable and energy-efficient all season long.

2. September Insulation Improvements: Enhance Energy Efficiency

High-end properties often boast extensive square footage, which can lead to higher energy consumption during the fall and winter. To keep your home both warm and energy-efficient, assess your insulation. Proper insulation in attics, walls, and floors can significantly reduce heat loss, leading to lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment. Pay particular attention to areas where drafts are common, such as windows, doors, and basements. Upgrading to double-glazed windows or adding weatherstripping to doors can also help in sealing warmth inside your home.

3. September Roof and Gutter Maintenance: Protect Against the Elements

The roof of your home is its first line of defense against the elements. As the cooler months approach, ensure your roof is in top condition by having it inspected for any signs of wear, such as loose or missing shingles, cracks, or leaks. Addressing these issues early can prevent water damage and structural problems during the rainy and snowy months. Additionally, clean out your gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which can damage your home’s exterior and foundation.

4. September Landscaping Tips: Preserve Curb Appeal Through Fall and Winter

Your property’s exterior is just as important as its interior, and maintaining curb appeal during the cooler months requires some thoughtful landscaping. Start by trimming back trees and shrubs to prevent any damage from falling branches during storms. Consider planting cold-resistant flowers and shrubs to keep your garden vibrant throughout the fall. Also, don’t forget to winterize your irrigation system by draining and shutting it off to prevent freezing and bursting pipes.

These preventative measures will keep your luxury home in pristine condition, allowing you to enjoy the comfort and elegance it offers, no matter the weather outside.

Economic Update | Week Ending August 31, 2024

August marked an official change in policy for the Federal Reserve as Fed Chairman Jerome Powell stated, “The time to cut rates has come,” following the Fed’s annual conference in Jackson Hole. The first-rate cut is expected in September. this month every inflation indicator showed that inflation was taming. July’s inflation reports came in as follows: The Consumer Price Index showed consumer prices rose 2.9% from one year ago. The Producer Price Index showed that wholesale prices rose 2.2% from one year ago. The Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, a favorite of the Fed showed a 2.5% year-over-year increase. The second quarter Gross Domestic Product, the broadest measure of the strength of the economy was revised upward from an initial estimate of 2.8% to a 3% increase. The August jobs report will be released next Friday. The Fed is watching employment closely in determining how much and how far to cut rates. They have indicated that the first cut will be in September.

Stock Markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the month at 41,563.08, up 1.8% from 40,842.79, on July 31, 2024. It is up 10.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 5,648.40, up 2.3% from 5,522.30 last month. It is up 18.4% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the month at 17,713.63, up 0.1% from 17,599.40 last month. It is up 18% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the month yielding 3.91%, down from 4.09% last month. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the month at 4.20%, down from 4.35% last month. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury 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 August 29th, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35%, down from 6.46% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.51%, down from 5.62% 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.

Home sales data is released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the National Association of Realtors and the California Association of Realtors. These are July’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales July 2024 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.95 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in July, down 2.5% from an annualized rate of 4.05 million last July. The median price for a home in the U.S. in June was $422,600, up 4.2% from $410,109 one year ago. There was a 4-month supply of homes for sale in June, up from a 3.3-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 29% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 13% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 27% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 1% of all sales.

July California existing-home sales report – Prices down slightly from June, but up 6.5% from one year ago – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 278,810 on an annualized rate in July, up 4.7% from a revised 268,840 homes sold on an annualized basis last July. There was a 2.9-month supply of homes for sale, up from a 2.5-month supply one year ago. The statewide median price paid for a home in July was $886,560, down 1.6% from $900,720 in June and, up 6.5% from $832,530 one year ago.

Have a great weekend!

Economic Update | Month Ending August 31, 2024

August marked an official change in policy for the Federal Reserve as Fed Chairman Jerome Powell stated, “The time to cut rates has come,” following the Fed’s annual conference in Jackson Hole. The first-rate cut is expected in September. This month every inflation indicator showed that inflation was taming. July’s inflation reports came in as follows: The Consumer Price Index showed consumer prices rose 2.9% from one year ago. The Producer Price Index showed that wholesale prices rose 2.2% from one year ago. The Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index, a favorite of the Fed showed a 2.5% year-over-year increase. The second quarter Gross Domestic Product, the broadest measure of the strength of the economy was revised upward from an initial estimate of 2.8% to a 3% increase. The August jobs report will be released next Friday. The Fed is watching employment closely in determining how much and how far to cut rates. They have indicated that the first cut will be in September.

The graph below shows the CPI rate from 2021 to now.

Stock Markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the month at 41,563.08, up 1.8% from 40,842.79, on July 31, 2024. It is up 10.3% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the month at 5,648.40, up 2.3% from 5,522.30 last month. It is up 18.4% year-to-date. The NASDAQ closed the month at 17,713.63, up 0.1% from 17,599.40 last month. It is up 18% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the month yielding 3.91%, down from 4.09% last month. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the month at 4.20%, down from 4.35% last month. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields.

Mortgage rates reached their lowest levels in over a year – 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 August 19, 2024, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.35%, down from 6.78% at the end of May. The 15-year fixed was 5.51%, down from 6.07% last month.

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.

Home sales data is released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the National Association of Realtors and the California Association of Realtors. These are July’s home sales figures.

U.S. existing-home sales July 2024 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.95 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in July, down 2.5% from an annualized rate of 4.05 million last July. The median price for a home in the U.S. in June was $422,600, up 4.2% from $410,109 one year ago. There was a 4-month supply of homes for sale in June, up from a 3.3-month supply one year ago. First-time buyers accounted for 29% of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 13% of all sales. All cash purchases accounted for 27% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 1% of all sales.

July California existing-home sales report – Prices down slightly from June, but up 6.5% from one year ago – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 278,810 on an annualized rate in July, up 4.7% from a revised 268,840 homes sold on an annualized basis last July. There was a 2.9-month supply of homes for sale, up from a 2.5-month supply one year ago. The statewide median price paid for a home in July was $886,560, down 1.6% from $900,720 in June and, up 6.5% from $832,530 one year ago.